Child Care Provider Checklist

Provided by The National Women's Health Information Center

Here is a list of important information to measure the quality of a child care provider or center.

Child Care Provider:

Phone Number:

Address:

Date(s) Visited:

Caregivers/Teachers:

• Are children greeted when they arrive?
• Are children's needs met quickly even when things get busy?
• Do the caregivers/teachers have training in CPR, first aid, and early childhood education?
• Are the caregivers/teachers involved in continuing education programs for themselves?
• Will the caregivers/teachers always be available to answer your questions and deal with your concerns?
• Are parents' ideas welcomed? Are there ways for you to get involved?

The Setting:

• Is the atmosphere bright and pleasant?
• Is there a fenced-in outdoor play area with a variety of safe equipment? Can the caregivers/teachers see the entire playground at all times?
• Are there different areas for resting, quiet play, and active play? Is there enough space for the children in all of these areas?

The Activities:

• Is there a daily balance of play/activity time, story time, and rest time?
• Are the activities right for each age group?
• Are there enough toys and learning materials for the number of children?
• Are toys clean, safe, and within reach of the children?

General Questions:

• Do you agree with the discipline practices?
• Do you hear the sounds of happy children?
• Are children comforted when needed?
• Is the program licensed or regulated?
• Are surprise visits by parents encouraged?
• Will your child be happy there?