Describe signs of high-quality child care for infants and toddlers, based on standards for developmentally appropriate practice

What will be an ideal response?

Answer: The following signs of high-quality child care for infants and toddlers are based on standards for developmentally appropriate practice. These standards, devised by the U.S. National Association for the Education of Young Children, specify program characteristics that serve young children's developmental and individual needs, based on both current research and consensus among experts.
• Physical setting. The indoor environment is clean, in good repair, well-lighted, and well-ventilated. There is a fenced outdoor play space available. The setting does not appear overcrowded when children are present.
• Toys and equipment. Play materials are appropriate for infants and toddlers and are stored on low shelves within easy reach. Cribs, highchairs, infant seats, and child-sized tables and chairs are available. Outdoor equipment includes small riding toys, swings, a slide, and a sandbox.
• Caregiver–child ratio. In child-care centers, the caregiver–child ratio is no greater than 1 to 3 for infants and 1 to 6 for toddlers. Group size (number of children in one room) is no greater than 6 infants with 2 caregivers and 12 toddlers with 2 caregivers. In family child-care homes, the caregiver is responsible for no more than 6 children; within this group, no more than 2 are infants and toddlers. Staffing is consistent, so infants and toddlers can form relationships with particular caregivers.
• Daily activities. The daily schedule includes times for active play, quiet play, naps, snacks, and meals. It is flexible rather than rigid, to meet the needs of individual children. The atmosphere is warm and supportive, and children are never left unsupervised.
• Interactions among adults and children. The caregivers respond promptly to infants' and toddlers' distress; hold, talk to, sing to, and read to them; and interact with them in a manner that respects the individual child's interests and tolerance for stimulation.
• Caregiver qualifications. The caregiver has some training in child development, first aid, and safety.
• Relationship with parents. Parents are welcome anytime. The caregivers talk frequently with parents about children's behavior and development.
• Licensing and accreditation. The child-care setting, whether a center or a home, is licensed by the state. In the United States, voluntary accreditation by the National Association for the Education of Young Children or the National Association for Family Child Care is evidence of an especially high-quality program.