Ask the Child Care Provider:

• Can you tell me more about your background and experience?

• What are some reasons you enjoy taking care of children? Do you have children of your own?

• How will my child be transported to and from school or when you leave the house?

• What are your expectations regarding length of commitment?

• Do you smoke? Do you have any health problems?

• Have you had training in first aid?

• What are your views on discipline? Meals? Television? Playmates?

• What would you do if . . . ? (Give examples relevant to your situation: medical and personal emergencies, common problems with child.)

• Can you give me several references, preferably from former employers?

• May I have a tour of your home?

• Do you have a current licensing permit?

• How much does it cost? When are the payments due?

• What are the hours? Holiday and vacation schedule?

• Are there extra charges for such things as meals or transportation?

• Are fees reduced if more than one child enrolls?

• Are deductions offered for periods of absence?

• Is financial assistance available?

• Is safe transportation provided to and from school?

• What is the procedure for medical emergencies?

• What are the policies regarding illness? (for example, are parents contacted if another child has a contagious disease? Does caregiver have someone to substitute in case she gets sick?)

• What questions do you have for me?
   

Observe or Ask About:

Home

Does the home have:

• ample toys and art materials?

• plenty of indoor and outdoor space?

• special areas for quiet and active play?

• safe, creative outdoor play equipment?

• a quiet place for homework?

• places to practice extracurricular skills (sports, music, dance)?

• smoke detectors and fire extinguishers? Regular fire drills? Alternate exits?
   

Caregiver

Does the caregiver:

• welcome my questions and suggestions?

• share my childrearing philosophy?

• take time to share my child's experiences with me?

• sensitively handle feelings of fear, shyness, upset, and anger?

• respect each child's unique background and interests?

• guide rather than direct behavior?

• seem cheerful, affectionate, and warm?

• have training and experience in early child education?

• establish and consistently maintain limits?
   

Program

Does the program:

• balance active, physical activities with quiet, restful ones?

• prohibit play that could quickly get out of hand?

• allow children to pursue some activities without being disturbed by others?

• furnish an environment rich with science materials, books, building equipment, musical instruments, toy and art materials, props for dramatic play, natural materials like sand, water, and clay?

• balance structured and unstructured activities?
   

Health and Safety

• What is the procedure for medical emergencies?

• What are the policies regarding illness? (for example, are parents contacted if another child has a contagious disease? )

• Is the staff trained in first aid?

• Are important phone numbers posted near the phone? (Examples include police, fire, poison control center, hospital, children's physician, ambulance.)

• Does my caregiver always know how to get in touch with both parents?

• Does my child receive appropriate supervision?

• Can all doors in the center be opened from the outside at all times?

• Do all glass doors have decals?

• Are the rooms well ventilated and comfortable year-round?

• Are the bathroom facilities clean and easily accessible to children?

• Are stairways and walkways free from clutter?

• Are dangerous items out of reach or locked in a cupboard, drawer, or cabinet?

• Are floors free from spills, slippery surfaces, or small throw rugs?

• Are toys safe, clean, and in good repair?

• Is your child safe around pets? Are pet dishes out of reach?

• Are play surfaces, indoors and out, softened with carpeting or wood chips?

• Do children seem safe with one another?

• Is the outdoor area fenced and free of hazards?

• Is the play equipment safe and appropriate for your child's level of development?
   

Meals

• Are healthy snacks or meals served?

• Are children allowed to leave food on their plates? (They should never be forced to eat.)

• Are portions small and second helpings available?

• Is the kitchen clean?