Choosing child care is important! You want to look for a program that is best suited for your child and a program where you feel comfortable placing your child. The provider should give your child individual caring attention.
New York State Regulations:
New York State has regulations for child care programs to follow to help keep children healthy and safe.
It is always best to gather all of the information that you can about a child care program that you are interested in. For specific information about a program and that programs compliance with the regulations, you can visit New York State Office of Children and Family Services.
You can also contact the local Western New York child care licensing office at:
New York State Office of Children and Family Services
Buffalo Regional Office
295 Main Street, Room 545
Buffalo, NY 14203
(716) 847-3828
Visit different programs before you make a final choice. It is important to spend time observing how the provider interacts with children and parents. Look to see if the provider has a positive relationship with children and if the provider is open to having you visit and participate in your child's care. When visiting a child care facility we recommend that you:
LOOK AND LISTEN
- Is the atmosphere bright and cheerful?
- Is the facility safe and clean indoors and outside?
- Is there a fenced-in outdoor play area?
- Are the children greeted upon arrival?
- Do the adults interact with the children in a caring, positive manner?
- Do the children seem happy and relaxed?
- Are there separate areas for resting, quiet play and active play?
- Are the activities appropriate for each age group?
- Are there enough toys and are they within reach of the children?
- How are behavior issues handled?
- Are meals nutritious and appealing?
- Do the staff and children wash their hands before eating and after diapering/toileting?
ASK
The New York State Office of Children and Families Services has a free checklist that you can take with you when you visit different child care programs to help you find a high quality child care program for your child.
Child Care Resource Network does not recommend child care providers. Child Care Resource Network cannot be responsible for the quality of care. We urge you to personally visit the family providers and centers on this referral list. For more information or an additional list of providers, contact us.