When searching for a compatible caregiver for your child, leave no stone unturned.

Refer to this checklist when visiting childcare centers and interviewing other childcare providers to help you ask all the right questions about all the critical issues.

Caregiver

• Treats children with respect
• Gets on the child's level physically when speaking to her
• Speaks and listens with respect
• Accepts children's feelings
• Encourages growth and independence
• Provides every child with their own place for sleeping and storing belongings

Safety

• Keeps all equipment in good condition
• Removes potential hazards from reach: cleaning supplies, sharp objects, medications, etc.
• Provides a clean and comfortable environment
• Practices good hygiene: hand washing, wiping noses, etc.

Appropriateness

• Provides age appropriate equipment and activities
• Uses appropriate discipline
• Helps children learn how to interact with others
• Helps children learn how to take care of themselves

Background

• Provides references
• Provides written policies
• Has daily plan of activities
• Has experience with children
• Has supervision as well as education and training
• Understands and respects different parenting styles

This tipsheet is part of the Success By 6™ Parent Toolkit (pictured left).

Also included in the toolkit are tipsheets on meal ideas for young children, everyday activities for dads, childcare checklist and more.

Order your free toolkit now.

Source: Born Learning™, a public engagement and material distribution campaign that provides important information about what young children need every day to ensure quality early learning.  Designed to support you in your critical role as a child's first teacher, Born Learning materials are made available through the efforts of United Way, United Way Success By 6™ and Civitas.

See more tipsheets.