Child Care Centers
Your child is cared for in a facility licensed to maintain health and safety, as well as appropriate group size and staff/child ratios.
Child Care Center
The primary purpose of licensing a child daycare center is to safeguard the well-being of the children served. Granting a license means there is clear evidence that the building and grounds are safe; that staff are appropriately trained and responsible; and that the program shall, in practice, reflect an understanding of the healthy growth and development of children. Further, the license is meant to be an assurance to parents and the community that the children are being cared for in a safe, healthy environment where appropriate activities, time schedules, food, materials, equipment and staff are consistently available and are used for encouraging and supporting the children's physical, social, emotional, and intellectual growth."
"Licensing is a method of regulation designed to implement the state's obligation to the families whose children attend day care centers. A license is granted after a detailed evaluation of the facility and program has shown that conformity to the established regulations prevails. An application for licensure may be obtained from the Day Care Licensing Office of the Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth and Families."
"Full license- A full license shall be issued to a program that is determined to be in compliance with the regulations. The license is valid for a period not to exceed one year, expiring on July 31."
"Probationary License- A probationary license shall be issued in place of a full license at any time when a licensee is temporarily unable to comply with a regulation or regulations, provided that the area or areas of non-compliance do not present an immediate threat to the health and well-being of the children."
"Before a probationary license can be issued, the licensees must submit written documentation that the areas (s) of non-compliance do not present a threat to the health and well-being of the children and a plan is in place to correct the area (s) of non-compliance. This plan must be approved by the Day Care Licensing Supervisor."
The above information was provided by the RI Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF)
| Tips For Evaluating | |
| Did you feel comfortable with the person who will take care of your child? | |
| Did you feel that your needs were understood and respected? | |
| Is the facility licensed and operating within the standards? | |
| Is it close to work or home? | |
| Do its days and hours of operation fit my schedule? | |
| What is the child-to-caregiver ratio? | |
| How much does it cost? Can I afford it? | |
| Did the center staff and teachers convey warmth and a sincere interest in you and your child? | |
| Did you feel that you could speak openly and honestly about questions or concerns with the Center Director? | |