Page 43 - Choosing a Child Care Center

CHOOSING A CHILD CARE CENTER

quired ratios are not being maintained, you should
report it to your local state licensing agency. When
teacher-child ratios go beyond what their allowed
rate is, the chances for safety concerns and hazards
greatly increases, and the well-being of children in
care is jeopardized.
When you visit the center, be sure to take note of
the security and safety measures in place, and ask
many questions, such as:
• How are the indoor and outdoor play areas
childproofed and safe?
• Is all the play equipment in good condition,
or are repairs needed?
• Are children ever left unattended?
• Are all doors secure so strangers cannot
enter?
• What is the pick-up and drop-off policy?
Who can pick up my child?
• What are your emergency plans for intrud-
ers, fires, earthquakes, tornadoes, and other
emergencies?
All good safety and security starts with robust
emergency plans and policy. High-quality safety and
security policies focus on both the goals of the securi-
ty plan as well as the feasibility of implementation.
By starting with what needs to be accomplished—
whether that’s protecting students during the day,

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