CHECK LIST 

LOOKING FOR QUALITY CHILD CARE

The following items ARE required by the State

• Is the license displayed in a visible location?

• Are separate spaces available for different age groups?

• Is the quantity of toys and materials sufficient for the number of children in the classroom? Are they developmentally appropriate?

• Is the classroom arranged in a way that the toys and materials are accessible to children?

• Are furnishings in the classrooms child sized?

• Are fire extinguishers on site? Are fire escape plans posted?

• Do the children have an opportunity to play outside each day?

• Is the outside area free of litter and obvious hazards?

• Are children being supervised by the child care provider?

• Is there shade available outside where children play?

• Is the schedule of daily activities posted and current?

• Does there seem to be enough caregivers for the number of children in the room? (Ask about staff/child ratios)

• Are activities observed appropriate for the ages of the children involved?

• Do the child care providers follow hand washing procedures?

• Does the center encourage parents to drop in and visit at any time?

• Does the facility serve nutritious meals/snacks?

• Is there a current weekly menu posted in a visible location?

Additional things to look for NOT required by the State

• Is your initial reaction upon entering the child care center a positive one?

• Is there space for active play and other space available where quiet play may take place?

• Are the child care providers interacting with the children?

• Does the center encourage use of the outside area for learning activities as well as free play?

• Are children allowed to make choices throughout the day?

• Do the child care providers seem patient and receptive to the needs of the children?

• Is there a daily method of communication between the child care provider and the parents?

• Are parents encouraged to participate and be involved?

Source: NC Division of Child Development (http://ncchildcare.dhhs.state.nc.us)