|
 |
Choosing child care homes and centers: Your choice - Your Responsibility
1. Call for information - ask about:___hours, days, fees___how many children and their ages ___staff experience, training, turnover ___transportation to school and activities ___meals and snacks ___whether unannounced visits are allowed 2. Visit with your child – observe:___Are the children busy, happy, and interacting with adults?___Is the play area, bathroom and kitchen clean? ___Are the toys clean, in good condition, and age appropriate? ___How are problems handled (crying, fighting, shyness) ___Look at the posted child care license and latest Report of Inspection. 3. Sit down and talk:___Are parents encouraged to visit and ask questions?___What is the child/staff ratio? ___How are emergencies handled? ___What is the discipline policy? ___Review the current meals and snacks. ___Review the daily routine: activities – outdoor/indoor, quiet/active, group/alone, planned/free times. ___What are the sick and vacation policies? ___What about medications? ___What about naps? ___Is a written agreement for parent/care giver responsibilities? ___What is the first aid knowledge? ___What about television viewing? ___ Are their any extra charges, and for what? ___References After the visit ask yourself:___Would my child fit into this group?___Would my child's emotional, social and learning needs be recognized and developed here? ___Am I satisfied that my child will be safe and comfortable in this setting? Your responsibility continues:After your child is enrolled:___Visit at least every 3 months (unannounced)___Talk to your child every day regarding how things are ___Watch for any changes in personality ___Talk with other parents ___Give no "blanket" permission for outings ___ Authorization: prohibit release of you child to those unauthorized If problems arise:___Talk with the director or care giver___Talk with other parents Danger Signals:___Listen to your child. If (s)he is constantly unhappy or withdrawn, something is wrong.___Bedwetting, nightmares, sign of violence, and expressing affection in unusual ways may also be danger signals. ___Be cautious is the care givers sound angry or cross, or if they seem overwhelmed with their responsibilities. A good facility can be wrong for a particular child. Your observations and your sense of instinct about how your child fits in are your best guides. Trust your feelings! |
Checklist materials compiled by: Colorado Commission on Children and Their Families, Mile High United Way, Colorado Department of Human Services, El Paso County Department of Human Services |