McKesson Clinical Reference Systems: Women's Health Advisor 2002.2

• Is the family day care home or center licensed?
• Is the licensing permit current?
• What are the payments? When are they due?
• Is an initial registration fee required?
• Are there extra charges for such things as meals or transportation?
• Are fees reduced if more than one child enrolls?
• Are deductions offered for periods of absence?
• Is financial assistance available?
• Is the center or home convenient?
• When is it open?
• Is safe transportation provided?
• What are admission requirements?
• Do the children seem happy, busy, and relaxed?
• What is the caregiver-to-child ratio?

  Federal guidelines for centers suggest no more than 1:3 for infants; 1:4 for toddlers; 1:8 for children aged 3 to 6 years.

  Federal guidelines for family day care homes suggest 1:5 for children under 2 years (3 children or less is better); 1:6 for children aged 2 to 6 years.

• How long does the caregiver plan to care for children?

This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information is intended to inform and educate and is not a replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.