Guide to Choosing a Child Care Provider

When researching child care facilities or talking to caregivers about the best care for your child, Easterseals suggests checking the ABCs of quality care. Make sure that the center is accredited, they demonstrate belief in the children they care for, and have committed teachers. Use this short list of questions to help ensure you receive the best child care possible. Print this page and take it with you as you look for a program for your child. Ask questions and feel free to take notes about what you see and hear.

A: Accredited Centers

Make sure the center follows the rigorous standards outlined by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

• Is the center licensed?
• Does the center operate according to the NAEYC accreditation guidelines?
• Are caregivers trained and experienced?
• Is the atmosphere bright and welcoming?
• Does the environment appear safe, secure, and fully accessible?
• Are children supervised adequately?
• Are parents welcome to visit at will?
• Are there sufficient personnel to respond in the event of emergencies?

B: Belief in Each Child's Potential

Verify that each child receives an appropriate individualized learning plan with equal emphasis on cognitive, social, emotional and physical skills.

• Are children allowed choices for activities and environments?
• Do children seem engaged in stimulating activities?
• Are appropriate therapies available on site?
• Are learning materials accessible to children with disabilities?
• Are toys safe, clean and within reach of the children?
• Do the adults speak positively about all children?
• Are all children receiving individual attention?
• Are the caregivers and teaching practices responsive to differences in children’s abilities, interests and experiences?

C: Committed Teachers

Check to see if the center provides a safe, nurturing environment with trained teachers who encourage and love each child.

• Are children greeted in a loving, respected manner?
• Are there caring, nurturing interactions taking place between caregivers and children?
• Does the staff demonstrate respect for one another and the children?
• Are caregivers trained in CPR and first aid?
• Are caregivers involved in continuing education programs?
• Do caregivers communicate with parents daily?
• Are the children engaged?
• Are children comforted, when needed, by staff or other children?
• Will the child care staff help you develop goals for your child and plans to achieve them?
• Are daily, weekly, monthly and special event schedules shared with families?

Easterseals Child Development Centers answers yes to all of these questions. Easterseals has more than 100 years of experience in providing affordable inclusive child care — placing children both with and without disabilities in the same learning environment. All Easterseals centers provide a safe and nurturing setting in which children can explore their environments, hone new skills and learn from each other.