Bring
this checklist with you when you visit prospective childcare centers to
assist you in making the best selection for you and your child. Be sure
to visit at least three locations. Use the following criteria to evaluate
each location you visit. Mark your comments or place a check mark next
to the items that you see or are informed about during your visit. Don't
be afraid to ask questions! Once you decide that you need care, it is
best to begin looking!
| Licensing: | Location #1 | Location #2 | Location #3 |
Department of Public Welfare |
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| Department of Education |
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| Keystone STARS Participant |
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| Program: | Location #1 | Location #2 | Location #3 |
| Daily posted schedule |
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Written developmental curriculum |
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| Variety of activities |
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| Balance of play & learning time |
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| Balance of group & individual activities |
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| Daily outdoor activity |
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Opportunity for napping |
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| Safety: | Location #1 | Location #2 | Location #3 |
| Posted evacuation plan |
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Regular fire drills |
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Covered electrical outlets |
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| Smoke detectors/fire extinguishers |
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| Monitored entrance |
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| Accessible emergency information |
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Policy on whom child may be released to |
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| Policy: | Location #1 | Location #2 | Location #3 |
Provide written policies |
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Open door/visitation |
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Fees/payments |
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Incidents/discipline |
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| Staff: | Location #1 | Location #2 | Location #3 |
Interact positively with children |
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Create a warm, secure environment |
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Appear happy & confident |
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Have appropriate training/experience |
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Are respectful of the children |
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Are respected by the children |
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| Greet & are comfortable with parents |
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| Environment: | Location #1 | Location #2 | Location #3 |
Happy children |
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Clean & well maintained |
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Fenced outdoor play area |
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| Age-appropriate supplies & equipment |
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| Health: | Location #1 | Location #2 | Location #3 |
| Frequent handwashing |
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| Illness & medication policy |
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| Required immunizations/health evaluations |
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Nutritious snacks |
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First-aid/CPR trained staff |
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First-aid kits |
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| Location #1 | |||
Center Name Center Telephone Director's Name Operating Hours |
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| Location #2 | |||
Center Name Center Telephone Director's Name Operating Hours |
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| Location #3 | |||
Center Name Center Telephone Director's Name Operating Hours |
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