In order to aid parents in making this important choice, here is some basic information on indicators of quality child care environments.  More information on this subject can be obtained by calling the FHRRA office (800-227-3578 or 785-532-7197)

Adult to Child Ratio and Group Size
The fewer the children for each adult the more likely your child is to receive high quality care.

* How many children are in care at any one time?

* What are the children’s ages?

* How many adults are there?

Caregiver Qualifications

Caregivers with degrees, credentials, and/or special training in working with children are more likely to provide your child with higher quality care.

* What is the provider’s experience and/or education level?

* Does the provider have Infant/Child CPR and First Aid training? 

* What kind of on-going professional development does the caregiver participate in?

Turnover

It is best if children stay with the same caregiver at least a year, if possible.

* How long has the caregiver been working at the center or been in business?

* In centers, when are transitions from one class or age group to another handled?

Health & Safety Indicators

Appropriate health and safety precautions are important to your child’s well-being.

* How does the provider discipline children?

* Does the provider have Infant/Child CPR and First Aid training? 

* How are nap times, meal times, and toileting/diapering handled? 

* Describe some of the health & safety measures implemented.

Accreditation

Providers that are accredited have met voluntary standards for child care that are higher than Kansas state requirements. 

Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential- The CDA is a nationally recognized credential awarded to child care professionals who have demonstrated their competence in working with young children.  Child Development Associates must illustrate their competence through formal education requirements, written statements about their program, an on-site observation, a written examination, and an oral interview.  For more information on the CDA Credential, visit www.cdacouncil.org

NAFCC Accreditation-The National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) Accreditation program certifies family child care homes that have voluntarily met the highest standards available in the family child care field.  The quality of these family child care homes has been assessed in five areas: relationships, the environment, developmental learning activities, safety/health, and business practices.  For more information on NAFCC Accreditation, visit http://www.nafcc.org/

NAEYC Accreditation- The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Accreditation program certifies child care centers that have voluntarily met the highest standards in the early childhood field for center-based settings.  These centers must meet standards addressing relationships, curriculum, teaching, assessment, health, teaching staff, leadership/management, families, community relationships, and the physical environment.  For more information on NAEYC Accreditation, visit http://www.naeyc.org/families/.

Family involvement

Strong partnerships between your child’s caregiver and the family are important to quality care.  Here are some ways to be involved:

* Read program or classroom newsletters.

* Be there for your child’s birthday or other special events.

* Attend parent-teacher conferences or meetings regularly.

Adapted from “How to find quality child care in your community” by Child Care Aware.  For more information on chosing quality child care please visit Child Care Aware.