There are many different kinds of center-based care, including nursery schools, preschools, and parent cooperatives. Some of these centers are set up primarily to keep children safe and secure. Others are designed to prepare children for their school years. Center-based care is most frequently available in a town or city. Many child care centers have an organized program of activities to help children learn.
Some centers follow more formal plans.
Your child may not be comfortable in a large group for a major part of each day. Talk to the director to make sure the center's program has the approach you like and includes the kinds of activities you want for your child. This checklist is designed to help you decide what things about a child care arrangement are most important to you and your family. It can also help you make sure your child's arrangement offers the things you believe are important. Arrange to visit the center or home when the children are present.