Selecting a Quality Childcare Program

By Dawn Justman, Parent/Provider Services Coordinator, Child Care Resources & Referral

Quality childcare is a must! This comment is made to parents and providers, encouraging us to provide the best care for children. But what IS quality care and how do we determine if centers meet guidelines? Below is a list of quality standards from the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Ask your center about these to check for quality in childcare services.

• A quality program exceeds state Department of Human Services (DHS) regulations – The program not only meets requirements but does better! They might have more staff than required or the square footage per child is more than minimum. Centers must post their license, and it is okay to ask for their last licensing specialist report.
• A quality program is developmentally appropriate – The program offers hands-on learning activities to meet children’s age, interest, and abilities. This includes respect for all family backgrounds. Ask to see curriculum goals. Lesson plans and daily schedules should be posted. Look for a balance of quiet and active play. Environment, equipment, and staff expectations should be consistent with children’s needs.
• Health and safety are of utmost importance – Is the equipment in good repair? Do staff wash hands frequently? Are emergency procedures posted? Is playground equipment fenced in and well maintained? These are some things you need to check to evaluate health and safety.
• The center has an open door policy – Quality programs encourage parent participation through advisory councils, committees, and volunteer opportunities. Parents are welcome at all times. Background checks are completed on volunteers and staff. Parents are given a handbook. Read this carefully to make sure the policies are workable for you.
• Smiling faces and an easygoing atmosphere are the norm – Stop by your prospective center unannounced. Do the children seem happy? Is the staff smiling? Is the center loud and shouting or calm and accepting? All centers have crazy days, BUT if every day is like that, it may be cause for concern. How long has the center been in business, and what is the average staff tenure? Although staff turnover is high in childcare, core staff should have been there for several years.

The best recommendation for providers and parents is to check out your center and ask a lot of questions. Parents should visit several centers, several times. Bring your child with on at least one visit. They will be living in this environment, so be sure the provider and child are a good match.