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Choosing Child Care

Quality Indicators

Selecting Child care is an important decision for you and your child. LOCATE: Child Care Service helps you find good places for you and your child. Call the names of the family providers or centers you received. Gather any basic information about the program. If you feel comfortable, make an appointment to visit.

Follow these tips to find the program that is the right match for you and your child.
During your visit, look for these characteristics of good places for children:

Caregiver

  • Appears to be a pleasant and caring person.
  • Handles discipline in a consistent, positive and loving manner.
  • Has training and experience with children.
  • Promotes open communication regarding your child’s growth and development.
  • Interacts throughout the day with your child.

Environment

  • Clean, safe, and healthy indoor and outdoor space for the children to move and play freely.
  • Atmosphere is bright and pleasant.
  • Are there toys and materials that are age appropriate?
  • Get a tour of the inside and outside spaces that are used for care.
  • Does the caregiver practice and encourage good hygiene with the children?

Program

  • Are there a variety of toys and learning materials?
  • Is there a daily schedule posted with opportunities for active/quiet, indoor/outdoor, and adult/child chosen play?
  • Are the children happy and playing together?
  • Can you picture your child in this environment?

For more information, call LOCATE: Child Care at (877) 261-0060, to reach the Baltimore call center. You may also link to the call center by dialing APPLES for Children at 301-733-0000 or 800-924-9188, pressing 1 to be transferred to a LOCATE counselor.

  
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