As parents prepare for children to return to school or child care, Bureau of Child Care Licensing has some helpful hints for you to keep in mind to better ensure that your child will be safe and well-cared for in your absence. You can check out a facility’s track record regarding compliance with licensing regulations by going to AZ Care Check and taking a look at what has been cited on previous inspections, as well as information on whether there have been enforcement actions taken against the facility.
You can also request the facility provide you with their inspection reports for review on-site at the facility. A Parent Board in the main entrance of the program will provide valuable information on which staff members are in charge of the program, applicable fees, menu items, availability of inspection reports, etc. Take time to review this information, and ask questions of management.
We have an online Parent’s Guide that gives an overview of what to look for in determining the right childcare program for you and your child. As a newly enrolled parent, you will be provided a copy of the facility’s Statement of Services or Parent Handbook. The information will spell out many of the program’s policies and procedures for you, including discipline procedures, admission and release requirements, what is required for your child’s enrollment, your responsibilities as an enrolled parent, and much more. Read this document carefully in order that you fully understand the facility’s position on a number of relevant issues. Again, ask questions regarding anything you remain unclear about.
If you have questions regarding which programs must be licensed and which may be exempt from licensing, please call 602-264-2539 or visit our Bureau of Child Care Licensing website.
It is really important to keep a close eye on the facility where your child attends. Things change quickly and it is good not to be complacent when going back to childcare after the vacations. This article gives some good tips on choosing and monitoring childcare, including checking how the institution handles hygiene, the qualifications of the director, the ratio of kids to staff, and the upkeep of playground areas and other potentially hazardous places http://childcareaware.org/parents-and-guardians/child-care-101/choosing-child-care .
These days flu virus is spreading vigorously. Make sure that your kid gets flu short. Influenza viruses circulate every year and the best thing to do is getting vaccinated.
This is some great information, and I appreciate your suggestion to check a child care facility’s records about past inspections. My husband and I just moved into a new area, and we want to find a good place for our daughter to go. We’ll definitely make sure to check the facility’s records so we can make sure it’s a safe place for her to stay. Thanks for the great post!