Checklist for success
Choosing a childcare center or preschool
A very strong first step in your search is to locate NAEYC-accredited programs in your area. This accreditation system was established in 1985 in part to help families just like yours identify good preschool and childcare programs.
To earn this accreditation, each program must meet national performance standards that go beyond most state health and safety licensing requirements. Teachers and staff in these programs receive ongoing training, and the programs are both observed by independent, professional experts and reviewed by a national accreditation panel.
To find an NAEYC-accredited childcare or preschool program in your area, click here.
Once you've found a few preschool or daycare programs you'd like to explore further, schedule a visit. Walk through each facility and take note of the following:
- How much do they focus on the children? Watch to see how children interact with each other and with adults. Are they building healthy relationships? Ask about the curriculum, too; does it include a variety of activities appropriate for the children's ages and needs?
- Do they have qualified staff? Ask about the degrees and training they have. They should have the educational background to promote your child's learning and development. Once you've established this, evaluate their experience. How long have they been with this program? Teachers who stay in a program longer are more able to focus their attention on the children and establish bonds with them.
- Do they build relationships with families? Ideally, you should be able to partner with them to ensure your child's needs are met. During your walk-through, ask how information and concerns are communicated between the staff and families. Also ask whether families are permitted to visit their children during the day.
- Is it well-run? First, cover the basics: are they licensed by the state? Is their facility safe, and do they have policies and procedures designed to keep the children safe from preventable illness and injury? Are the facilities age-appropriate and well-maintained, inside and out? Next, ask about the child-to-teacher ratio. The lower the ratio, the more individual attention the teacher should be able to provide to your child. There should be at least one adult for every 10 four-year-olds.
Ideally your chosen program's staff will do their utmost to develop your whole child!
As you visit programs with the above in mind, you'll begin to gain a feel for which program is right for your child. Don't be afraid to ask other parents you trust for their recommendations, too, particularly if their children have needs similar to yours. Ask open-ended questions, and request specific examples and details.
We commend you for your care and effort in finding the best possible program for your little one. The right choice will pay dividends now and in the years to come!
