Tips for Parents on Finding a Good Child Care Provider

1. Visit the location when the children are there.

• Is it a safe and clean environment?

• Are the toys and activities suitable for your child’s age and skills?

• Can parents visit at any time?

• The center or home should be licensed. Ask to see their certification.

2. Talk with the child care workers.

• Ask them about their experience and training. Do they regularly attend developmental training programs?

• How long have they been working with children?

• Ask them what they like about working with children.

• Ask about discipline policies.

3. Find out about health and safety procedures.

• Do they have an emergency plan? Are the procedures posted?

• Note the fire exits and make sure that they are clearly marked. Ask if they hold regular fire drills.

• Find out if the staff is CPR/First Aid certified.

• Are medicines and poisons locked in child-proof cabinets?

• What is their policy for treating sick children?

• Check with the Department of Health to see if the provider has any violations listed.

4. Do your homework.

• Go prepared with questions you want to ask.

• Request the names of other parents you can call for references.

• Ask about fees for full-time and part-time care. Check out other providers/facilities in the area to see if they are comparable.

• Finally, trust your instincts. If it doesn’t feel right—even if everything checks out—then it probably isn’t the place for your child.

For bilingual childcare provider referrals, contact
The Committee for Hispanic Children and Families
at (212) 206-1090; (212) 206-8043.

The Committee for Hispanic Children and Families, Inc.
110 William Street, Suite 1802, New York, NY 10038
T: (212) 206-1090; F: (212) 206-8093; chcfinc@chcfinc.org
© 2000 The Committee for Hispanic Children and Families, Inc All rights reserved
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