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When it comes to choosing a daycare, parents often prioritize good activities, well-qualified staff, and learning programs that encourage curiosity and play. But along with these factors, licensing and accreditation should also be considered.
Not sure what these terms mean or what to look for? Let’s learn about the significance of licensing and accreditation for daycare centers and what it means for your kids.
What is child care licensing?
Child care licensing is a process in which a state sets minimum operating requirements for any child care program. Requirements typically include measures to maintain the health and safety of children in these programs. They also often allow for child care programs to be monitored so authorities can ensure the daycare meets the necessary standards. Licensing requirements may include:
- Criminal background check for child care staff
- Training for child care staff, including first aid and CPR
- Sanitation
- Emergency planning
- Building safety
- Child and caregiver health
- Ongoing monitoring to ensure compliance
Remember that licensing requirements may vary by state and city. For example, Chicago daycare centers operating from a private residence with more than three and less than 16 children for less than 24 hours per day do not require a City of Chicago Day Care License. But they’ll still need a State of Illinois License.
What is child care accreditation?
While childcare licenses are offered by the state or city authorities, accreditations are usually issued by accrediting associations based on their own standards. The best daycares will go beyond state licensing to obtain accreditation from reputed institutions, like the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), National Early Childhood Program Accreditation (NECPA), or the National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC).
Understanding different accreditations and accreditation criteria can help parents choose the right daycare for their kids. For example, the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) accreditation focuses on the following broad areas:
- Relationships
- Curriculum
- Teaching
- Assessment of Child Progress
- Health
- Staff Competencies, Preparation, and Support
- Families
- Community Relationships
- Physical Environment
- Leadership and Management
Meanwhile, the National Early Childhood Program Accreditation (NECPA) covers the following:
- Program Administration:
- Facility and Environment
- Families and Community
- Health & Safety
- Teacher-Child Interactions
- Staff Qualifications
- Supervision
- Ongoing Child Assessments
- Curriculum and Developmental Program
Remember, licenses and accreditations are not foolproof. It may be a good idea to tour a potential daycare before enrolling. It could also help to look up reviews and testimonials online. Additionally, you may want to talk to parents of enrolled kids. Taking these steps can help ensure you find a safe and nurturing daycare in Chicago or elsewhere.
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