Quality Early Childhood Education

Search for Quality Early Childhood Centers

Start by entering your address in the search bar above to locate quality early childhood education centers in your area. Look for centers with excellent or good ratings. Look for centers that are marked as 'Consider for Care'. Consider centers with high rating and accreditations. These are often indicators of quality and reliability.

Review Inspection Reports

Once you have identified potential centers, it's important to dig deeper into their quality by reviewing their inspection reports. You can find these reports on your state's Health and Human Services website, or by searching the center's name along with "inspection report" online. These documents provide valuable insights into the center's adherence to safety protocols, cleanliness, and overall operational standards.

Download the Appropriate Checklist

Download the checklist that is tailored to your child's age group. This checklist serves as a comprehensive guide, helping you evaluate each center methodically. It ensures that you don't overlook any critical aspects of what makes an early childhood center truly exceptional.

The checklist is designed to be printed on a single sheet, front and back, and can be easily bifolded for convenience. This makes it easy to carry with you during visits and ensures that all the essential information is readily accessible.

Download Print Version

Download Digital Version

Download Print Version

Download Digital Version

Understand the Checklist Structure

The checklist is divided into three sections. Use this structure to cover all critical aspects of each center.

1. Before You Visit: Prepare by noting down specific questions and areas of concern to address during your visit.
2. During Your Visit: Focus on the physical environment, the staff, and the general atmosphere. Make observations about the interactions between staff and children.
3. During Teacher Observation: Pay close attention to how teachers engage with the children. This section helps you assess the quality of instruction and care provided.

Schedule a Tour and Ask Questions

Arrange a visit to each center on your list. During the tour, take the opportunity to ask about the center's philosophy on early childhood education. Inquire about the staff's qualifications, their experience, and how they handle various situations. This will give you a clearer picture of how the center operates on a day-to-day basis.

Observe the Learning Environment

While touring the center, pay special attention to the classrooms and play areas. Ensure that these spaces are clean, safe, and designed to stimulate learning and creativity. Observe how the staff interacts with the children—positive and nurturing interactions are key indicators of a good learning environment.

Check References and Reviews

Ask the center to provide references from other parents, and take the time to read online reviews. These firsthand accounts can offer valuable perspectives on what you can expect from the center. Hearing about the experiences of other families can help you make a more informed choice.

Make an Informed Decision

After gathering all the information, use the checklist to evaluate each center. Consider factors like safety, the educational approach, the quality of staff, and your overall impression during the visit. Weigh the pros and cons of each option carefully to select the best early childhood education center for your child.