Another sign of quality care is activities and experiences that help your child's development. With this in mind, consider these questions:

• Are plenty of age-appropriate toys and materials available to help children learn and grow?

• Do the activities allow children to think creatively?

• Can children play in groups and alone, too?

• Does the caregiver post a schedule? Are play and activity times balanced with times for reading and rest?

• Are parents free to visit at any time?

• How does the program encourage further training for its child care providers?

The child care setting — the place you take your child each day — is another key indicator of quality child care. You want your child to be healthy and safe while you're at work. While you look over the center or home, consider these questions:

• Is an up-to-date certificate or license displayed?

• Are there enough caregivers for the number and age of children?

• Is the facility or home clean, well-lit, cheerful, and bright?

• Are there enough indoor and outdoor materials and play equipment? Are they age-appropriate, clean, safe, and in good repair?