Tips on choosing a provider

Parents should try to visit any child care facility twice before making a decision.  The first should be a question and answer visit where you can get a feel for the provider’s qualifications and history.  You should develop a list of questions to ask the provider before making your first visit.  Some questions to ask include:

• Are you licensed?  (Confirm this with your local child-care council)
• Have you completed a CPR course?
• What background have you had in child care?
• How long have you been working in child care and where?
• What is the maximum number of children you will take?
• How much do you charge?
• Do you close during holidays?
• What are your hours?
• Do you smoke?
• Do you have pets?
• What is your sick policy?
• Do you serve meals?
• Can you describe a typical day at your center?
• Can you provide me with references?

Your second visit should by made by both you and your child to observe the other children present and determine your child’s comfort level within the new environment.  It is important to notice how the provider and other children interact with your child as well as the general atmosphere of the center.

• Things to consider about your second visit include:
• Does your child seem happy and relaxed?
• Did your child feel comfortable during the visit?
• Does the child care program accept your child's age group?
• Do the hours of operation fit my schedule?
• Is transportation to and from the location available?
• Are nutritional meals and snacks provided?
• Are activities available for children of different age groups?
• Are there enough staff members to care for all of the children?
• Are there enough toys, books, paint, and games, and are they in good condition?
• Are the classrooms nicely arranged to allow for active and quiet play?
• Are all staff members trained to care for the children in the center?
• Are staff members respectful to children, coworkers, and parents?
• Are fee arrangements clear and precise?
• Is the facility clean and safe?
• Is the program's mission appropriately focused on children?
• Are parents welcome and can they visit without notice?