Regional Child Care R and R | Child Care Quality and Improvement

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Child Care Quality & Improvement

Program
Interactions
Environment
Activities/Materials
Health/Safety
Infants/Toddlers

Program

What are the signs of a quality child care program?

An ideal caregiver-to-child ratio
Home Care - 1:5
Center Care
1:4 (infants)
1:5 (toddlers)
1:7 (2 years)
1:10 (3-5 years)
Caregivers are educated in child development and receive ongoing training.
Caregivers are friendly and keep parents informed.
Parents can be involved in the program.
Parents are welcome to visit anytime.
Program philosophy, activities, and materials reflect a respect for individual and cultural differences.
Program license or registration is displayed.

Interactions

Parents look for caregivers who treat their children with respect and warmth and have a positive attitude.

Caregivers show affection, warmth, and patience with the children.
Children are happy.
Caregivers place themselves at the child's level. They talk and listen to the child.
Children are encouraged to talk and express themselves.
Caregivers give praise for good behavior.
Caregivers set clear and age-appropriate limits and expectations.
The discipline policy is available in written form.
NO physical punishment or verbal abuse is used.

Environment

Make sure the environment (indoor and the outdoor areas) is appealing and inviting.

Indoor Area

The atmosphere is bright and pleasant.
Children's artwork is displayed.
The room is not cluttered or overcrowded. Caregivers can see all areas.
Furniture and bathroom facilities are appropriate for the sizes and abilities of the children.
Soft space and quiet space are provided for relaxation and comfort (look for cushions, rugs, bean bags, etc.)

Outdoor Area

There are areas for active play, quiet play, and resting.
The outdoor play has a variety of equipment and provides shade.
Caregivers can see the entire playground at all times.

Activities/Materials

Provide creative and fun activities to help children grow.

There is a daily balance of planned activities (for example: play time, story time, and rest time).
Activities are appropriate for age or skill level. Children are not required to sit for long periods of time.
Children can choose from a variety of materials and activity areas of their own interest.
Children can reach play materials easily. There are enough materials for all children.
Settings include the following areas for children 2-5 years (examples of materials are given):
Pretend play: dress-up clothes, house, or other materials for make believe play.
Quiet play: books, puppets, flannel board.
Creative art: crayons, paint, paper, markers, glue, scissors, easel, clay.
Manipulatives (problem solving and small motor skills): puzzles, matching games, counting materials.
Block play: variety of blocks and building accessories.
Sensory play: water and/or sand table with appropriate toys.
Creative movement and music: records and tapes, instruments, dancing.

Health/Safety

Provide a safe and healthy environment for the children you serve. This reassures parents and makes them feel comfortable with leaving their child(ren) in your care.

Nutritious snacks and meals are offered daily.
The outdoor play area is fenced in.
Emergency exits are well marked and clear of furniture and materials.
Electrical outlets are covered, and cords are not within reach of the children.
Cleaning supplies and medications are kept in locked cabinets and out of the reach of children.
Medications are given as instructed and with written permission from parents.
Parents are notified immediately of any accident or illness.
Caregivers observe proper health precautions when caring for a sick or hurt child (For example, gloves are used).
Washing hands is pare to the daily routine for everyone--before eating and after messy activities, outdoor play, and toileting/diapering.
Caregivers share program policies and procedures with parents on a regular basis.

Infants/Toddlers

Special Considerations for Infants & Toddlers

Infants and toddlers should be talked to, cuddled, and rocked frequently throughout the day.
Each infant should have his or her own crib. Bedding should be changed daily.
Diapers should be changed when needed--rather than on a set schedule.
Caregivers should wash their hands after changing each diaper.
Infants should be held while being fed a bottle. They should have their own cup, spoon, etc.

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