How to Inspect Child Care Centers

• Step 1

  Narrow your choices by identifying which centers have chosen to be accredited by National Association of Education for Young Children (NAEYC). The voluntary accreditation goes above and beyond the required state licensing. It is an involved process and includes adherence to strict guidelines. Those centers with the NAEYC stamp have taken the extra steps to ensure they will meet the developmental and emotional needs of your child.

• Step 2

  Once you have narrowed your choices, call the centers and make an appointment to meet the director and observe the center. If you feel any hesitation or unfriendliness, eliminate that center from your list. The night before, review the NAEYC and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) criteria for a quality center. Jot down a list of questions.

• Step 3

  Once you meet with the director, you will want to ask the right questions: What is your policy for sick kids? How many caregivers per infant/toddler? How long has the current staff been employed with the center? What does the average day look like for an infant/toddler/preschooler? What are your discipline procedures? Is the staff trained in CPR? What degrees or certification in early childhood development do you require from the teachers?

• Step 4

  Observe the center. Is the area spacious with inviting nooks and comfortable chairs? Are walls are decorated with an assortment of kids' work? Are children engaged in activities? Are play materials varied and interesting? Are teachers friendly (not stressed) and working closely or with a small or large group? Is the center is clean but not sterile?

• Step 5

  Check for safety. Does the center have cameras? Are all doors kept locked with a buzzer system? How are parents admitted into the center? Where are the families from--local or a variety of towns?

• 2
• To ensure you're making the right decision for your family, it is best to follow the NAEYC and AAP guidelines, speak to your pediatrician, call 211 ( 2-1-1 Childcare.org) and check for complaints filed against the center and speak to other parents that use the center.
• To ensure you're making the right decision for your family, it is best to follow the NAEYC and AAP guidelines, speak to your pediatrician, call 211 ( 2-1-1 Childcare.org) and check for complaints filed against the center and speak to other parents that use the center.
• Rash decisions are never good. Some parents mistakenly choose too quickly without following the proper steps.
• Rash decisions are never good. Some parents mistakenly choose too quickly without following the proper steps.

References & Resources

• National Association of Education for Young Children
• Kidshealth
• American Academy of Pediatrics
• Babycenter
• 2-1-1 Childcare.org