Quality Indicators: What to Look For

Group Size


New York State regulates the maximum number of children in a group in all forms of regulated child care because it is important to maintaining proper supervision, enough one-on-one attention for each child and for health and safety purposes. You should also look for an environment that most closely matches your child’s temperament, personality and needs. Some children thrive in a large group setting, while others need the quiet and comfort of a smaller group.

Ratios


Younger children fare better and receive more individualized attention when there are a smaller number of children per adult caregiver. Ratios are also regulated by New York State, but some programs will offer a better ratio; make sure you ask for the child-to-adult ratio specific to your child’s age at each facility you visit.

Health and Safety


Regulated child care programs (centers, homes, and afterschool) must meet minimum health and safety requirements in order to receive and maintain their registration or license. To know more about the health and safety of a program, you can request a Compliance History from our office or the Office of Children and Family Services regional office. Be sure to ask when the last time an inspection was conducted and what were the results. Once your child is enrolled, you may wish to visit often and unannounced. Health and safety items to consider are whether there is direct and constant supervision, proper hand washing, working smoke detectors and fire drills, and the general condition of the toys and space. This is not a comprehensive list. For more information contact us for registered Family Day Dare homes and School Age Child Care programs, or contact the New York State Office of Children and Family Services for licensed Day Care Centers and Group Family Day Care homes.

Caregiver Education and Turnover


An important indicator of quality is child care provider/teacher’s level of education and continuing professional development. Caregivers in New York State must receive a minimum of thirty hours of training every two years. In addition, low staff turnover provides consistency of care for children. When looking for child care, ask how long the provider/teacher has been working with young children.

Accreditation


Earning an accreditation means that the program complies with and maintains compliance with national standards that may be higher than the minimum state regulations. These programs have demonstrated that they understand children’s developmental needs, plan appropriate activities and guidance, and have met ongoing educational requirements, all which contribute to higher quality programs.

Family Involvement


Quality programs work closely with parents to ensure that they are kept informed about their child’s development, and that they offer family members both planned and unplanned opportunities to observe and participate in activities. Quality programs will also respect and embrace ethnic and cultural differences. Parents, guardians, and other family members have the most direct and lasting impact on a child’s growth and development; chose a program that feels welcoming to you; learn what is expected; and, communicate what is important to you. It is a partnership!