Child Care Options - Child Care Centers
Opting for care in a child care center means that your child will be in a group setting outside of your home. Center-based programs generally care for larger numbers of children than other types of care, and children are usually grouped by age and developmental need. Not all centers are licensed for infant care. Centers are licensed by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) and are restricted by regulations that govern the number of children they are allowed to serve, the ratio of adults to children, and the educational qualifications of the caregivers. If the center is accredited, it means it has gone through a rigorous examination and meets the standard by national organizations such as the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
Some parents prefer a center-based program for older children who might benefit from more structure than you may find with in-home or family child care. It is also an appealing option if you want your child to be with peers of the same age. There is a correlation between the education and experience levels of the director and teaching staff and the quality of child care provided. Be sure to ask about the qualifications of the teachers and director in the center you visit.
In addition, most centers have year-round schedules and hours of operations that are generally suitable for a standard workday.
To review licensing agencies and staff-to-child ratios for centers in your state, check out National Child Care Information Center website and click on your state.
Protecting children is everyone’s job. If you have a concern about a child care program call: (800)-732-5207 the NYS Department of Social Services Child Care Complaint Line.
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