This checklist was developed to help you choose the right childcare facility for you and your child. Take this checklist with you when you visit each childcare facility. Compare the results of your checklist for each facility you visit to see which program has the greatest number “Yes” responses.
THE CARE PROVIDER:
Do the children receive the individual attention, warmth and understanding that you would like for your child?
Are the children encouraged to make friends with other children?
Are the children happy as they play and talk to one another and the caregivers?
Do caregivers recognize when a child is sad, upset or excited?
Is an effort made to listen and answer children’s questions in ways they understand?
Is discipline handled in a positive manner?
Do caregivers supervise the children at all times including during nap time?
If the child does not fall asleep during nap time is the child engaged in a quiet activity?
Do you sense that the caregiver feels good about being with children, and has a sense of humor and enthusiasm?
Does the caregiver have professional training in child care development?
STAFF-TO-CHILD RATIO:
Do the ratios meet the following required standards?
Infants 1:5 or 2:11
1 yr olds 1:6 or 2:13
2 yr olds 1:8 or 2:16
3 yr olds 1:13
4 yr olds 1:15
5 yr olds 1:15
School Age 1:20
HEALTH AND SAFETY:
Are sanitary arrangements made for diaper changing procedures?
Is the area for program activities well-lit, ventilated, and free from odors?
Are the Indoor and outdoor spaces for children safe and free of hazards? For example: radiators covered, stairways protected, windows protected, electrical outlets covered with safety caps, outdoor space fenced and free from debris, broken glass, etc.
Are heavy pieces of furniture, such as storage shelves and bookcases, secure and stable so that they cannot tip over?
Are emergency fire drill and evacuation procedures posted in a conspicuous place in each room?
Are toys and equipment clean and in good repair? For example: free from sharp edges, splinters, pain chips and loose pars.
Are cleaning supplies locked? Is a written emergency record kept for each child?
Are there background checks on all caregivers?
Are first aid supplies readily available and does at least one person have current first aid and CPR certification?
Are there written procedures to release your child to another person?
Are there written procedures to follow when your child becomes sick?
Are sick children kept separate from the other children?
MEALS AND SNACKS:
Nutritious and attractive?
Inclusive of food items reflecting the children’s age and cultural background?
Suitable to meet the needs of children on special diets?
Is the area clean that is used for food preparation and eating?
Do the caregivers eat with the children?
Can children reach the toilet and sink easily and safely?
Is the facility accessible and usable by individuals with disabilities?
ENVIRONMENT:
Do the caregivers allow the children to engage in activities by themselves and with other children?
Is the space arranged so that children are able to freely select material according to their own interests and abilities, and return them when they are finished?
Do you hear caregivers in the program giving praise and encouragement to children to enhance their self confidence?
As you see children participating in the program do they seem to be enjoying the activities?
Do the caregivers help the children learn through a variety of activities?
Is the program well-supplied with equipment and supplies, such as books, games, blocks and other manipulative toys and creative art materials?
Are the activity area neat, clean and attractively decorated?
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