For Parents Needing Child Care Resources

Please visit the Resource and Referral page for more information about how the program works to help families find child care and preschools in the Newport News and Hampton community.

Choosing child care is one of the most important decisions that parents will ever make. While safety, cost, and convenience are important, your child’s proper development will be enhanced by a nurturing and stimulating environment with opportunities to learn through active, creative, exploratory play. It is essential that you make an on site visit with your child and ask the questions in the guide below of the provider before you decide which child care program will best match your and your child's needs. While location and rates may be of concern, quality factors will ensure a suitable and lasting placement. These questions and observations will assist you in narrowing your search.

Checklist For Parents Searching For Quality Child Care Programs

The Caregiver: Is the caregiver regulated or licensed? What are the caregiver’s credentials and experience? How many children does the provider care for and what are their ages? Is the caregiver nurturing and patient with the children in her care? How does the caregiver manage to give individual attention to each child? Are you comfortable with the caregiver to child ratio? Is the caregiver trained in first aid and administering medication?

Program: Does the caregiver serve nutritious meals? Is she enrolled in the USDA Food Program? Are there routine nap times and outdoor play? Does the caregiver use a structured curriculum? Is this a learning environment? Is there a balance of activities i.e. indoor/outdoor, structured/free play, individual/group? Does the program offer transportation? Can the program accommodate any special needs that your child’s care may require?

Policies: Is there a contract and/or handbook outlining the policies of the home or center? What are the days and hours of care available? What are the rates, additional fees, and when is payment expected? Are there menus and daily schedules posted? How does the caregiver handle discipline? Does the caregiver have a late pick-up and/or payment policy?

Environment: Are the surroundings bright, colorful, and cheerful for children? Is the facility clean and safe from harmful objects and substances? Is there adequate space for children? Are there educational toys available for interactive play? Is this a smoke free environment?

Parental Involvement: Are parents welcome to visit at any time and without notice? How does the caregiver communicate with the parents regarding the child’s progress? Is the parents’ involvement expected and encouraged? Have you talked with other parents about their experiences with this caregiver?

Please call 757-240-2731 if we can assist, or email Donna Bock, or Patti Kernodle.

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