Checklist

Checklist

You may use this checklist as a guide when you visit prospective CHILD CARE PROVIDERS.
Yes	No	First Things First!
___	___	The location is accessible to my home/job.
___	___	The hours fit my/our schedule -- even on rainy days when traffic is a nightmare.
___	___	I/we can afford the fees, including registration, tuition, insurance, etc.
Yes	No	Things To See
___	___	Is the provider's license posted and available?
___	___	Does the environment appear clean and safe for children?
___	___	Is the interaction between child and caregiver one of mutual respect and enjoyable for all?
___	___	Does the caregiver get down to the children's eye level when talking?
___	___	Does the caregiver sit with the children, rather than at a desk away from the children?
___	___	Is there sufficient equipment for all children to play with?
___	___	Is there sufficient staff based on the number of children being cared for?
___	___	Are children kept busy with fun and developmentally appropriate activities?
___	___	Are there smoke alarms and are there emergency disaster plans posted?
___	___	Do the children sound happy and involved?
___	___	Is the sound level appropriate? Is it either too quiet or too chaotic?
___	___	Does the caregiver listen closely to each child and use positive language when speaking with the children?
Yes	No	Things To Ask
___	___	If you do not see a license posted, ask if they have a license.
___	___	What training and experience does the caregiver have? Are CPR and first aid included in the training?
___	___	What are their medical emergency procedures with the children? How are prescribed medicines handled for the children?
___	___	How does the caregiver deal with behavior?
___	___	Will they provide you with a list of parents that you can contact for references?
___	___	Are you welcome to drop in unannounced?
___	___	On what dates is the site closed, i.e., for holidays?
___	___	Does the caregiver offer alternative care times?
___	___	Do children go on field trips? If so, who drives and what vehicles are used?
Yes	No	The Parents' Role
___	___	Parents are welcome to drop in whenever their children are in their care.
___	___	Parents are encouraged to participate in activities.
Yes	No	How It Feels
___	___	This appears to be a place my/our child would enjoy.
___	___	I/we would feel comfortable using this program.
___	___	I/we have contacted Child care Licensing to learn if there are substantiated complaints.
Yes	No	Approach With Caution If:
___	___	Parents are limited to visiting hours and are not encouraged to drop in unannounced.
___	___	Caregivers are unwilling or unable to tell you about your child's day.
___	___	The caregivers do not act as if they enjoy their work.
___	___	Health and safety concerns are not attended to; for example, hands are not washed after diapering and before meal times.
___	___	License is expired or no license is posted.
___	___	References from current parents are not available.
		Notes