Parent & Community Services
What To Look For in a Child Care Program
When choosing a child care program, be sure to interview potential 
providers and check references before placing your child in their care. Also, continue to monitor your child care situation and keep open lines of communication between you and your child.
Child Care Program Checklist:
Relationship Between Caregiver and Children
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Children receive individualized attention
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Caregiver is relaxed, flexible and speaks in a calm voice
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Caregiver is patient with, and listens to, the children
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Caregiver speaks to children at the child's eye level
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Caregiver displays a sense of humor
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Caregiver is respectful of children and parents
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Children and parents are greeted warmly on arrival
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Caregiver communicates with parents often and in a positive manner
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Low staff turnover
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Small group sizes
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Open door policy; parents are allowed to visit anytime
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Family involvement is encouraged
The program
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A variety of materials and equipment are available for children to enjoy
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Musical instruments provided
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Pretend play
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Environment that encourages literacy
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Blocks, puzzles, games and a writing area
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Drawing, painting, and crafts - children's art displayed
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Manipulative area to encourage math skills
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Science activity area
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Room setup is geared toward child; everything is within child's reach
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Interesting balance of activities
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Times and places to play quietly or actively
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Daily schedule and lesson plans posted
Physical Environment/Safety
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Clean and comfortable with enough space for children to move freely
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Medicines and cleaning supplies locked away
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Safety gates for outside areas
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Safety caps on electrical outlets
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Up-to-date child care license/registration
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Safe, fenced, litter-free outdoor play areas
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Nutritious meals and snacks
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Caregivers trained in first aid and CPR
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Smoke detectors and fire exits
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Good lighting, heating and ventilation
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Emergency evacuation plan posted
We also encourage you to check the provider's licensing history. Visit www.dcf.state.fl.us/childcare.