Sorry I didn't post yesterday I didn't get on the computer but here you go......
1) Are you licensed by NYS? Ask to see the license and check to see that it is up to date.
2) What are the qualifications of your staff? Are your pre-school teachers certified? How much staff training do you offer? Is EVERYONE on your staff certified in Infant/Child CPR and First Aid?
3) Do you have an open door policy? (meaning you can 'drop-in' at any time during the day to visit your child) Can any other family members come and visit? (Our center allows family visitors, usually grandparents, as long as it is okayed by the parent
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4) What is your disipline policy? (This should usually be a time-out policy when applicable)
5) How many children are in a classroom and what are their ages? What is your staff to child ratio per classroom?( The state law is as follows: Infants/Waddlers(6 weeks to 18 months )4:1, Toddlers(18-36 months) 5:1, 3 year olds 6:1, and Pre-schoolers 7:1) For infants it is nice to have a room of only 8 or less, Toddlers no more than 12, and 3's and Pre-shoolers no more than 18. This is not always possible but ideal if it can be done.
6) What do I have to provide for my child? Are meals included? If so are they viewed by a nutritionist? How are the meals prepared? What is offered if my child doesn't want to eat the meal you have provided? If they have an on-site kitchen ask to see the Dept. of Health permit.
7) How do you recommend that I introduce my child into your center? Can I meet and speak with his/her teacher before I sign up? Is the teacher available during the day? May I call to check on my child? If I do call will I be able to directly speak to my childs caregiver? Who will be there at the end of the day that I can enquire about my child's day?
8) What is your sick policy? When will I have to keep my child home? What will you do if he/she becomes ill during the day? Will you be able to administer medication(prescription and non)? Who will be responsible for this if neccesary?
9) How do you handle emergencies? Where is the nearest hospital?
10) Do you have a nurse on-call or on staff?
11) Do you use gloves to change diapers? How is the changing table cleaned after each changing? Is there a sink nearby so staff can wash there hands? How often are the toys in the room cleaned? How are they cleaned? (State law is a 10:1 water and bleach mixture)
12) Have you ever had a complaint lodged against you? (Be sure to call the Dept. of Social Services to check this out BEFORE you go to the center)
13) What is your security like? Who can pick up my child besides myself and/or spouse? How to do make sure they are the designated person?
14) What do you need from me for my child to start?
15) Can I please have at least 3 references from current children in your center? ( 2 from the actual room and 1 if you can who has gone through the entire program)
The most important part is to go with your instincts!!!! If you feel welcome and good about the center you are in it is a good sign
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If you feel uncomfortable skip it, why go through questioning yourself! When you are at the center be sure to make sure the children all seem happy as do the staff! Do they look like they love their job or that they are waiting for the end of the day? Is the center clean? Do the toys look clean? Is the center safe? Are the doors locked or can anyone get in? Are the outlets all covered? Are the toys broken?(thumbs down
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Most important(please don't let them know another director told you this
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I could get kicked out of the club
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Don't make an appointment, just show up!!!!!! If they are a wonderful center with nothing to hide they will welcome you with open arms!!!! Good Luck
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