A picture is worth a thousand words. It's true for almost everything, especially child care. Visit every program you are considering. Visit more than once and at different times of the day. That way, you'll get a clear picture of how the program works. You'll see the caregiver's style and routines. And, once you've selected the right caregiver, keep on visiting. You can talk with the caregiver, ask questions, and stay connected.

Getting Started... Write these questions down on a handy pocket-size card to take with you when you interview child care providers.

Does the caregiver:

• seem warm, friendly, calm, and patient with the children?

• talk with the children and listen to them, too?

• have child care training and qualifications?

• have age-appropriate materials and activities that encourage creativity?

• include time for play, reading and rest?

• welcome parent involvement and spur-of-the-moment visits?

• have an up-to-date license or certificate posted?

• appear clean, safe, and well-lit?

• have enough caregivers for the number of children?