You want your kids to receive the best care available. Here are the top three things to look for when selecting a provider.
Adult-to-child Ratio
Lower adult-to-child ratios are good indicators of high-quality care. They help ensure children get enough one-on-one attention from educators and caregivers. Responsive caregiving is extremely important to children’s social and emotional development, health, safety, and learning abilities. Recommended adult-to-child ratios vary by age range. The total number of kids in a classroom impacts their learning experience, and smaller groups are better for their education. The national baseline for quality ratios has been established by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, but each state sets their own maximum ratios. Arizona’s baseline ratios are higher than the national level for quality.
BASELINE RATIO CHART:
| Age | Arizona Baseline | National Baseline |
|---|---|---|
| Birth–12 months | 1:5 | 1:4 |
| 12–24 months | 1:6 | 1:6 |
| 2 years old | 1:8 | 1:6 |
| 3 years old | 1:12 | 1:10 |
| 4-5 years old | 1:13 | 1:10 |
| Age |
|---|
| Birth–12 months |
| 12–24 months |
| 2 years old |
| 3 years old |
| 4-5 years old |
| Arizona Baseline |
|---|
| 1:5 |
| 1:6 |
| 1:8 |
| 1:12 |
| 1:13 |
| National Baseline |
|---|
| 1:4 |
| 1:6 |
| 1:6 |
| 1:10 |
| 1:10 |
Class Size
The total number of kids in a classroom plays a large role in their learning experience. Smaller groups are better for their education.
BASELINE RATIO CHART:
| Infant | Toddler | Preschool |
|---|---|---|
| 8 Children | 12 Children | 20 Children |
| 2 Teachers | 2 Teachers | 2 Teachers |
| Infant |
|---|
| 8 Children |
| 2 Teachers |
| Toddler |
|---|
| 12 Children |
| 2 Teachers |
| Preschool |
|---|
| 20 Children |
| 2 Teachers |
Happy Kids, Happy Class
When reviewing a possible provider, look to see if kids are connecting with their peers while engaging in work and play. Print off the checklist below to see which traits all good child care centers should have, and take it with you for during your visit.
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