Here’s a handy checklist, courtesy of the Community Child Care Council of Sonoma County (4Cs), to take with you when you visit a provider, or to use when you call.

What to look for when you visit:

• Settings that are safe, provide small group sizes, and have adult-to-child ratios that encourage the best opportunities for development.
• Caregivers or teachers who are warm, loving, and trained in early childhood development.
• A clean, safe, warm and comfortable atmosphere.
• Settings that offer opportunities for meaningful parent involvement.
• Happy, well cared for children.
• A child-centered environment that focuses on play.
• Space for outdoor play and exercise.
• Space for quiet play and naps.
• Toilet area is accessible and easy for children to use.
• A variety of toys and equipment in good condition and appropriate to the ages of the children in care.
• Nutritious food and snacks and a clean food preparation area.
• Positive discipline and guidance methods that foster the child’s ability to become self-disciplined. (Physical or verbal punishment of any kind, in centers or in a family child care home, is against the law.)
• Cleaning supplies and medications are locked in a high cupboard and out of reach.

What to ask when you call:

• Do you have a license?
• Do you have any openings?
• How many children are in your care?
• What is the adult/child ratio?
• What is a typical daily routine/schedule?
• What experience, qualifications, or training do you have?
• What is the staff turnover rate?
• What is the philosophy of the program?
• What are the fees?
• Do you have experience or training in identifying and working with children who have special needs?
• How much TV/video time is included in the daily schedule?
• What kind of meals and snacks are served?
• What are the rules about visiting the program?
• Do you have a contract that covers fees, method of payment, illness, vacation?