At your visit: Questions to Ask

Do you have a parent handbook?  (Quality programs should offer you a copy)
What are the qualifications of the director and the teachers?
How long have they been working with kids?
How do you keep families informed of your program and the success of your kids?
What is the ratio of teachers to children?
Does your program deal with children who have challenging behavior?

At your visit: Things to Look for

Does the teacher make eye contact with the children?
Does the teacher smile and listen to the children?
Are the children supervised at all times?
Are babies placed on their backs to sleep?
Do caregivers respond promptly to crying children?
Are babies held while being fed?
Is the classroom environment a good atmosphere?  Do you see books, puzzles, blocks, art, writing materials?
Is their an outdoor play area that has shade?

After your visit: Things to ask your child

Pay attention to your child’s reaction as well as your own instincts.

Do you think you would like to play there?
What did you like best about the classroom?
What did you like best about the teacher?