Evaluate a Potential Child Care Provider
Questions to Ask
- What types of training and experience do you have? Does this include training on working with children with special needs?
- Can you please provide me with some references from other parents?
Health and Safety
- What is your adult-to-child ratio?
- What happens if my child becomes ill or needs medication?
- What is your disaster plan in case of emergencies?
Program and Environment
- Is your program licensed and/or accredited?
- What would my child's daily routine be like?
- How do you include children with special needs in activities and everyday routines?
- What opportunities do I have as a parent to be involved?
Policies
- What are your fees? When are they due? Are there any additional fees I should know about?
- Do you have written policies and procedures (ie. holiday, illness, vacation)?
Things to notice during your visit:
Environment
- Is the provider warm and welcoming?
- Are the adults respectful of children as well as each other?
- Does the provider seem to enjoy being with the children?
- Do you feel comfortable with the provider?
Health & Safety
- Are the children supervised at all times, including when they are sleeping?
- Has the environment been child proofed for safety (ie. smoke detectors, radiator covers, electrical safety caps, and dangerous items or substances removed)?
Program
- Can children choose from activities that include indoor/outdoor, quiet/active, group/individual play?
- Are there plenty of materials and a variety of items to play with?
- How are children with special needs included in activities and routines?
Policies
- Are the policies and procedures written or posted?
- Is a child care license posted?