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Sector Columbia River

Protecting the Pacific Northwest

Planning Ahead

Child Care Centers

When contacting a child care facility there are a few questions that you can ask over the phone to determine if the center is right for your families needs.

• What is the program's age range?
• Are there openings for more children?
• What are the hours of operation?
• What are the programs goals and philosophies in caring for children?
• What is the child-to-caregiver ratio? The smaller the better.
• What is the caregiver's level of education and experience?

After you've narrowed down your choices, schedule a visit with each potential daycare and speak with its director or primary caregiver. Once there, use all of your senses to determine if the environment feels safe to you. Take a few moments to absorb the environment, use the following check list during a brief interview with the facility's director or primary caregiver.

• How many children are there for each adult? Ideally, the younger the fewer?
• Does the provider have training in early childhood development?
• Do the children seem happy and encouraged to learn?
• What is the philosophy of the program?
• Does the discipline policy and techniques match your own?
• Is there a balance of activities? Indoor and outdoor as age appropriate?
• Are there routines and/or rules the children can understand and follow?
• Is there space for each child's personal items?
• Is each area thoroughly childproofed?
• How are medical emergencies handled?
• Can parents get involved in daily activities if they desire?
• Can parents drop in without notice?
• Is there a trial enrollment period?
• Will the caregiver answer your questions and tell you about your child's day?

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