Child Care * Can you tell me more about your background and experience? * What are some reasons you enjoy taking care of children? Do you have children of your own? * Do you smoke? * Do you have any health problems? * Have you had training in first aid? * What kinds of activities might you plan for my child? * What are your views on discipline? Meals? Television? Playmates? * What would you do if . . . ? (Give examples relevant to your situation: medical and personal emergencies, common problems with child.) * Can you give me several references? * May I have a tour of your home? * Are you trained in first aid? * Do you have a current licensing permit? * What are the hours? Holiday and vacation schedule? * What is the procedure for medical emergencies? * What questions do you have for me? Observe or Ask About: Home Does the home have: * ample toys and art materials? * plenty of indoor and outdoor space? * special areas for quiet and active play? * safe, creative outdoor play equipment? * a quiet place for homework? * places to practice extracurricular skills (sports, music, dance)? * smoke detectors and fire extinguishers? Regular fire drills? Alternate exits? Caregiver Does the caregiver: * welcome my questions and suggestions? * share my childrearing philosophy? * take time to share my child's experiences with me? * really listen and talk to the children? * sensitively handle feelings of fear, shyness, upset, and anger? * respect each child's unique background and interests? * guide rather than direct behavior? * seem cheerful, affectionate, and warm? * have training and experience in early child education? * establish and consistently maintain limits? Program Does the program: * provide daily outdoor activities? * balance active, physical activities with quiet, restful ones? * provide ample rest and nap times? * prohibit play that could quickly get out of hand? * maintain an adequate staff/child ratio on the playground? * help children deal with feelings constructively? * provide security through a well-defined, predictable schedule of daily activities? * show children how to help themselves as much as possible? * allow children to pursue some activities without being disturbed by other youngsters? * provide plenty of time for children to complete their projects? * provide plenty of "hands on" learning experiences? * furnish an environment rich with science materials, books, building equipment, musical instruments, toy and art materials, props for dramatic play, natural materials like sand, water, and clay? * balance structured and unstructured activities? * design step by step goals for each child? * plan field trips or invite special visitors? Health and Safety * Is each child required to have an up-to-date immunization record? * Does the facility meet state standards for how many children can be taken care of by one adult? * Are staff and children taught to wash hands with soap and water after diaper changes or contact with body fluids? * What is the procedure for medical emergencies? * What are the policies regarding illness? (for example, are parents contacted if another child has a contagious disease? ) * Is the staff trained in first aid? * Are important phone numbers posted near the phone? (Examples include police, fire, poison control center, hospital, children's physician, ambulance.) * Does my caregiver always know how to get in touch with both parents? * Does my child receive appropriate supervision? * Can all doors in the center be opened from the outside at all times? * Do all glass doors have decals? * Are the rooms well ventilated and comfortable year-round? * Are the bathroom facilities clean and easily accessible to children? * Are stairways and walkways free from clutter? * Are dangerous items out of reach or locked in a cupboard, drawer, or cabinet? * Are floors free from spills, slippery surfaces, or small throw rugs? * Are toys safe, clean, and in good repair? * Is your child safe around pets? Are pet dishes out of reach? * Are play surfaces, indoors and out, softened with carpeting or wood chips? * Do children seem safe with one another? * Is the outdoor area fenced and free of hazards? * Is the play equipment safe and appropriate for your child's level of development? Meals * Are healthy snacks or meals served? * Are children allowed to leave food on their plates? (They should never be forced to eat.) * Are portions small and second helpings available? * Is the kitchen clean?