What is quality child care?

The Minnesota Child Care Resource and Referral Network issued a new checklist for families as they evaluate child care opportunities for their kids. The network noted that quality is a top concern for three quarters of parents -- why it isn't a top concern for all parents is beyond me -- but that they struggle to evaluate the quality of programs for themselves. So here are six things for which to look: ¨ Child care providers talk with children often and at their own level. ¨ Parents and child care providers communicate daily about the children's well-being. ¨ Child care providers are knowledgeable and have been trained to care for children. ¨ Children are cared for in small groups and receive the attention they need from adults. ¨ The child care space is clean and the care provider has a plan in place to keep children safe and healthy. ¨ A variety of activities are planned throughout the day that are interesting and involve each child.