Smart Beginnings
Quality Child Care Checklist
Looking for quality child care?
Before deciding, it’s a good idea to visit a few places to find the right fit for your family. Don’t forget to do your homework!
Here are the top ten things to look for:
- Is the center licensed & QRIS rated?
- How many children is each teacher responsible for?
- How experienced & educated are the teachers in early childhood?
- Is there plenty of time for play & interesting activities - places for reading, building with blocks, doing puzzles, dress up clothes & outside play?
- Do teachers smile, talk, listen, read, & play with children?
- Do teachers use calm voices & redirect children to other activities when there is conflict?
- Do children have the opportunity to be creative - paint, draw & use play-dough?
- Are meals & snacks healthy & well-balanced?
- Will my child have time to play outside - running, catching, throwing, etc.?
- Will my child have fun here & develop a love of learning?
Remember to talk to your child’s teacher often for updates on how your child is doing & be sure you can visit anytime.
Click here to download a printer-friendly version of our Quality Child Care Checklist (PDF)
