1. VISIT SEVERAL CHILD CARE HOMES OR CENTERS

• Are toys and books within the children’s reach?
• Do the caregivers enjoy talking and playing with children both inside and outside?
• Are infants able to explore safely?
• Is time spent talking, reading, and writing with children rather than watching too much TV?

2. ASK THEM QUESTIONS

• What are the caregivers’ child care experience and beliefs?
• How long have they been caring for children?
• What special child care training have they received?
• Do you agree on how to handle discipline issues?
• What would a typical day be like for the children?
• Is the home or center licensed or accredited?
• How do they help make a connection between home and child care?
• How will they respond to the special needs of your child?

3. LISTEN CAREFULLY TO THE ENVIRONMENT

• Do the children sound happy?
• Do caregivers speak in cheerful and patient tones?
• Do the children play well with each other and with the caregivers?

4. DETERMINE RATIO OF ADULTS TO KIDS

• How many adults are caring for how many children?
• Is there at least one adult for every 6-10 children?
• Is there at least one adult caring for every 3-4 infants and toddlers?

5. CHECK REFERENCES

• Can you talk to the parents who've used the center or home?
• What do they like and dislike about the provider?
• What kind of feedback do they receive on their child’s activities?
• How long have they been using this provider?
• What would they change about the center or home if they could?