Congregations Caring for Children

Is correct language used?

When are books used? Is there a regular story time?

Is there a balance between active and quiet play?

Is there child sized equipment?

Are toys stored within easy reach of the children, or must they always ask an

adult?

How is toilet training handled?

Are children required to take a nap?

Are children encouraged to help with cleanup?

There are 13 child care licensing offices throughout the state. You can receive

your Community Care Licensing office's number by dialing 916 229 4269. These

offices also handle most licensing applications. Licensing staff monitor child care

facilities through unannounced visits, investigate complaints, revoke licenses if

necessary, and work to promote quality child care. Feel free to contact licensing

to find out if there are any complaints against a provider and the nature of the

complaint. Talk to your provider about any complaints so that you understand

her side of the story. Ask to see the licensing reports. In the long run, your in 

stincts, along with your fact gathering, will help you find quality child care.

Child care centers

No two child care facilities are exactly alike. From a large child care center to a

neighbor's home to care in your own living room many choices are open to

parents seeking quality child care. Knowing the types of child care available and

how they can best meet the needs of both you and your child are the first steps in

making the right choice.

Child care centers are required to be licensed in California. Infants, toddlers,

preschool, or school age children may all receive care at a child care center.

Centers  are usually located in schools, religious facilities, public buildings, or

private buildings. A center may be a part of a large child care corporation or it

may be locally owned. Some centers focus on a specific teaching method, such as

High Scope, Montessori, or Waldorf. Center programs tend to be organized

around the care and education of a larger group of children.

Separate licenses are required to care for infants, preschoolers, and school age

children, although a center may be licensed to care for all three age groups at one

site.  Depending on their age, children receive care in separate areas at the center

for safety and activity reasons.

Ratios

The staffing ratios for child care programs are established by the State of Califor 

nia to provide minimum standards for adult supervision at a child care center.

Ratios of caregivers to children vary depending on the age of the child and the

73