What to Ask About

If you are considering a group child care arrangement, ask for a complete written list of policies. Ask questions if all of your answers are not answered by documentation. You will need to know basic facts about the center as well as details about safety, rules, activities, and what's expected of the parents.

General operations

• Payment, including amount, due date, and reasons why extra fees might be charged
• Hours of operation and holiday closures
• Security procedures, such as sign in/sign out of children
• When a child must be kept home or sent home
• Notice requirements for ending arrangement

Emergency procedures

• Fire
• Medical emergency
• Bad weather
• Severe contagious illness (such as meningitis)
• Staff training: First aid and CPR

Food preparation

• Is any food prepared on-site? If so, in what area?
• Are meals and snacks nutritious?
• Are there restrictions on what food can be brought in?

Hygiene practices

• Hand-washing
• Diapering
• How often are toilets, sinks, and counter tops disinfected?
• How often are floors and carpets cleaned?
• How often are toys disinfected?

Rules for children

• Are there behavior policies and rules in place? If so, what are they?
• How are children disciplined? How is physical aggression handled?
• Are toys from home allowed?

Other information

• Record-keeping: Are the children's records kept in a private but easy-to-access place?
• Parent involvement and expectations: Are parents invited to be on committees or on the governing body of the child care center?

For examples of questions to ask, see:

• Cleanliness and Hygiene Standards for Group Child Care Facilities.
• Emergency Procedures for Group Child Care Facilities.
• Food Handling and Preparation in a Child Care Setting.
• Health and Safety Policies in a Child Care Facility.
• Rules of Conduct for Children in a Group Child Care Facility.