Choosing someone to care for your children while you work is one of the most important decisions you will make. The following checklist can help you find childcare that's right for your children. By answering the questions below, you'll be able to determine whether a particular home or center meets your criteria, so that you can be more informed and more confident with your decision, and your child can be in the best possible hands. You can also download the checklist to keep with you as you look to find childcare for your child.
While (or immediately after) visiting each potential childcare facility, consider the following questions: Yes No Do you have a positive first impression as you walk through the front door? ____ ____ Is the home or center licensed? ____ ____ Do(es) the caregiver(s) have appropriate education, experience, and training? ____ ____ Does the home or center provide a handbook that covers important rules and policies? ____ ____ Do you feel comfortable with the rules and policies? ____ ____ Does the caregiver-to-child ratio meet state requirements and your expectations? ____ ____ Does the home or center look and smell clean? ____ ____ Do the caregivers wash their hands after changing diapers and helping children in the bathroom? ____ ____ Do the children wash their hands after using the bathroom? ____ ____ Do the caregivers wash their hands before handling food? ____ ____ Do the children wash their hands before eating? ____ ____ Is the home or center safe and child-proof? ____ ____ Are small toys kept away from infants and toddlers? ____ ____ Are outlets covered? ____ ____ Are doors to stairways closed, or are stairways gated? ____ ____ Is there the required number of operational smoke detectors? ____ ____ Are fire extinguishers handy? ____ ____ Are cupboards containing harmful substances securely latched? ____ ____ Are emergency numbers posted by all telephones? ____ ____ Are outdoor areas fenced and/or away from traffic areas? ____ ____ Do the children appear happy? ____ ____ Is the home or center too noisy or too quiet? ____ ____ Does the caregiver smile at the children? ____ ____ Does the caregiver talk so that the children can understand him or her? ____ ____ Does the caregiver demonstrate a positive attitude? ____ ____ Does it appear that the caregiver loves what he or she is doing? ____ ____ Does the caregiver show affection toward the children? ____ ____ Does the caregiver respond appropriately to crying children? ____ ____ Does the caregiver answer the children's questions? ____ ____ Does the caregiver appear patient? ____ ____ Does the caregiver encourage the children to treat each other with respect? ____ ____ Is the caregiver respectful to other parents? ____ ____ Are other parents happy with the care their children receive at the home or center? ____ ____ Does the caregiver follow a daily schedule? ____ ____ Is outdoor play a part of each day, weather permitting? ____ ____ Are plenty of toys and books available? ____ ____ Does the caregiver read to the children? ____ ____ Are there planned activities each day, such as games or crafts? ____ ____ Do the children go on field trips? ____ ____ Are drivers licensed and experienced in transporting children? ____ ____ Are the vehicles safe? ____ ____ Do the children use appropriate restraints? ____ ____ Are children given the time and a quiet place to nap or rest? ____ ____ Does the home or center provide nutritious meals and snacks? ____ ____ Is the location convenient for you to drop off and pick up your child? ____ ____ Does the home or center allow you to visit at any time, with or without notice? ____ ____ Have any complaints been filed against the provider? ____ ____ Has the provider's license ever been suspended? ____ ____ Does the cost compare favorably with comparable facilities? ____ ____ Will you feel comfortable leaving your child there? ____ ____