Choosing Quality
Child Care
Several long term studies have shown that children who attended high quality child care programs score better on academic tests in school and have fewer reports of acting out behavior. These results continue into the child’s teenage years. Learn more about what to look for when trying to find quality child care.
Child Care Resource and Referral Services for Families
We offer families and the community FREE child care referrals and information about child care programs in Middlesex and Somerset counties.
Several long term studies have shown that children who attended high quality child care programs score better on academic tests in school and have fewer reports of acting out behavior. These results continue into the child’s teenage years. Learn more about what to look for when trying to find quality child care by using the links below or contacting our staff.
Choosing Quality Child Care
Quality child care is individual to each child and family. However, parents also have the opportunity to consider years of research in their child care decision. We have included some highlights in this pamphlet.
Environment
The physical environment is important to a child’s success; space should be adequate, divided into learning centers as well as quiet and reading spaces. Children should be able to move comfortably around in their space and toys and equipment should be durable, safe and age appropriate.
Health and Safety
Of primary importance to parents is their child’s health and safety. Child care programs should promote procedures that include hand washing and regular health exams of child and caregiver. Program policies should include: sick policy, emergency contacts, CPR and first aid training for staff, fire drills and daily sanitation. The entire environment should be child-proof, toys should be in good repair and sanitized daily. Equipment should be inspected regularly.
Activities
Children learn through everyday experiences. Activities should be varied and based on the age of the child. There should be a variety of materials available and caregivers should be flexible, creative and non-judgmental. Activities should include indoor/outdoor, noisy and quiet time. All activities should be driven by the needs of the child and not by the teacher.
Caregiver/Parent
A quality program includes parents as partners in the development of their child. A level of respect should be established between parent and caregiver where information is shared, standards are agreed upon and success is celebrated. Parents should treat their caregiver with respect, cooperation and consideration.
Caregiver Development
To provide quality care a caregiver should be committed to improving their skills through training. Staff stability also increases a child’s positive experiences in child care.
Finally, trust your instincts. You know your child and you know where they will be happiest. Ask a provider if they would allow you to bring you child to the program for a day and see how they fit in.
Download Child Care Program Checklists
Additional Links and Documents