Know what you are looking for in a child care facility:

• Hours of Operation
• Ages Served
• Enrollment/Capacity
• Scheduling Options
• Child/Caregiver Ratios
• Regulations and Licenses
• Staff Qualifications
• Schools Served
• Affiliation/Accreditation
• Environment (pets, smoke-free, outdoor play area)
• Scheduling Comments (i.e. what Holidays are they closed/open?
• Curriculum
• Services/Fees
• Subsidy Participation
• Meals

If there are specific child-care needs, you may limit your search to operations that provide services listed below. It is recommended that you choose the fewest number of choices that apply, as your search results will be narrowed by each selection made.

• Special Needs Care 
• Accepts Child-Care Subsidies  
• Get Well Care
• Educational Program for Pre-Kindergarten
• After School Care
• Educational Program for Kindergarten and Above
• Drop-In Care  
• Special Skill Classes
• Part Time Care
• Transportation to/from School
• Weekend Care

Resources

Understand your options, know what questions to ask when talking to prospective providers and learn about ways to pay for your child's care in the booklet  Choosing Child Care. Published by the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services, this booklet  defines "quality" child care and gives tips on making the transition to a new child care easier for your infant, toddler, or preschooler.