Obviously, you want to find a child care or after-school program that will provide the very best care for your child. Here are some basic quality indicators that you should look for in whatever child care program you are considering:

• Group Sizes – Some children thrive in a large group setting, while others need the quiet and comfort of a smaller group. You should look for an environment that most closely matches your child’s personality and needs.

• Ratios – The younger your child, the more one-on-one care he or she may need. The state requires one adult caregiver for every four children up to age 2; one adult for every eight children age 2; one adult for every 10 children ages 3-4; and 1 adult for every 16 children ages 5 and up.

• Accreditation – Generally, accredited programs are those that meet the highest standards for health and safety of care.

• 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. 

• Caregiver Education and Turnover – In a child care center, an important indicator of quality is the level of education and continuing professional development that the staff members have. Low staff turnover provides consistency of care for children, and may also be an indication that a center has a welcoming and supportive work environment, which may translate into better care for your child.

• Health & Safety – Licensed programs (both centers and homes) meet the state’s health and safety standards. Unregulated centers and homes may also meet these standards, but you should check Missouri’s Family Care Safety Registry to screen your potential caregiver for child abuse/neglect or criminal background checks.