Your Child Care Options
Finding a Quality Provider
One of the most important and difficult decisions you will make as a parent is finding the right child care program. There are a lot of factors to take into consideration, some of which may not be familiar to you. Here are a few suggestions to get you started as you begin your search.
First, it is important to know that different types of child care programs are regulated differently in the state of Missouri:
Licensed Child Care
Many, but not all, child care programs are required by state law to be licensed by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, Section for Child Care Regulation. Both licensed and license-exempt facilities are required to have regular fire, sanitation and health inspections. In addition, licensed facilities have additional inspections each year.
A copy of the licensing regulations is available in every licensed program and the child care license should be posted in an obvious location close to the entrance. Check the expiration date on the license to make sure it is current.
Licensing records are open for public review and can indicate how well a program follows the child care rules. You may call the Section for Child Care Regulation to schedule a time to review the file of any licensed home or center.
A licensed family child care home is a small program for up to ten children, typically in the provider’s home. Children related to the provider are not included in the count of ten. The number of children and the ages of the children in care are defined on the family home provider’s license, which must be posted at the facility. The number of children under the age of two affects the total number of children allowed.
A licensed group child care home is a medium sized program for 11-20 children not related to the provider. The child care space can be adjacent to, but separate from, the provider’s living quarters. Group homes meet the same licensing rules as larger centers, including the maximum number of children per adult.
A licensed child care center is a facility for 21+ children operated in a location separate from the owner’s living quarters. Staff/child ratios follow:
- birth to two years: 1 adult to 4 children;
- two year olds: 1 adult to 8 children;
- three to five year olds (not in school): 1 adult to 10 children;
- five years and up (in school): 1 adult to 16 children;
- Special requirements apply for mixed age groups.
License-Exempt Child Care Center
According to state law, center-based programs operated by religious organizations or as a part-day nursery school are required to follow health and safety requirements, but are exempt from other licensing requirements such as staff/child ratios, discipline practices, and staff training. Child care programs run by public schools and some after-school programs are also not required to be licensed, and often fall into the License Exempt category. However, facilities may voluntarily become licensed. Licensed-Exempt records are open for public review. You may call the Section for Child Care Regulation to schedule a time to review the file of any license-exempt program.
Exempt Home Child Care
A provider caring for no more than four unrelated children is not required to be licensed or follow state regulations. Be sure to check the Missouri’s Family Care Safety Registry to scan for child abuse/neglect or a criminal background on any exempt provider.
Licensing rules and regular monitoring ensure a minimal “floor” of quality that protects children’s health and safety. Parents also need to understand specific factors that influence the quality of any child care program. Here are some factors to examine:
Staff Education and Turnover – The amount of education and continuing professional development of staff is an important indicator of quality. Low staff turnover provides continuity of care for children and also shows a welcoming, supportive, and positive environment, which may translate into better care for your child.
Group Sizes – Some children enjoy working in small groups or one on one, while others enjoy being around a large number of children. Figuring out what fits best with your child’s personality will help ensure the success of his or her transition to this new child care program.
Ratios – The younger the child, the more one on one care he or she may need. Look at the ratios listed above to see if the program is meeting this quality indicator.
Accreditation – Generally, accredited programs are those that meet the highest standards for health and safety of care. These programs must meet standards which exceed licensing regulations, and once completed, will have a certificate of accreditation.
Family Involvement – Quality programs work closely with parents to ensure they are kept informed about their child’s development. They often have an open door policy which means parents are free to come and go at any time.
The final step in making an informed child care choice is to make a list of questions to ask each program that you are considering, such as:
- Does the program have written policies, such as policies for discipline, payment, and attendance?
- Is there an open door policy for families? Can parents drop in unannounced?
- Does the teacher or family child care operator have special training or credentials?
- Does the teacher or family child care operator have CPR/First Aid certifications?
- Has she or he been screened for child abuse and neglect?
- Are there enough adults for the number and ages of children?
- Does the teacher or family child care operator have an emergency evacuation plan posted for emergency situations?
- Is a schedule posted? Does it include a mix of times for play, activities, stories, and rest?
- Can children play alone and in groups?
- Do the activities allow children to think and play creatively?
- Are the children’s hands washed before and after meal time? Toileting? Outdoor or messy play?
- What is the program’s policy on care for ill children?
Taking these steps will help you to make an informed decision when selecting a child care program that best meets your family’s needs.