Children need the attention of a nurturing caregiver to thrive, yet many centers are inadequately staffed. Staff-to-child ratio requirements vary from state to state. For example, in Arkansas, Georgia, Louisiana and New Mexico, the ratio requirement of staff to 6-week-old infants is six infants to one staff member; in Kansas, Maryland and Massachusetts, the ratio requirement is three infants to one staff member. Most states have ratios that fall somewhere in between. High-quality day-care centers and family day-care homes, however, often have better staff-to-child ratios than those mandated by the state.
All states require some mandatory screenings of prospective employees, but the requirements vary from state to state. Minimal screenings include a criminal background check and a screening for any substantiated claims of child abuse or neglect. Some states may also require fingerprinting through the state and/or FBI, as well as screening to ensure the candidate is not on a list of sex offenders.
State education and training requirements vary. Some states require nothing more than a high school GED for classroom teachers. Most states require directors to have at least a two-year degree; many require a four-year degree. States require additional annual training in child development topics, first aid, universal precautions and CPR.
The Department of Defense requires quarterly inspections of its child care facilities. Most states, though, conduct inspections annually or even less frequently. Inspectors look at the cleanliness of the facility and ensure proper sanitation practices are maintained, such as disinfecting counter tops, tables and diapering areas regularly. Centers must also follow guidelines for safety, such as having a posted emergency and evacuation plan, having working fire extinguishers and alarms and storing medications, chemicals and sharp objects, such as scissors and knives in locked cupboards or out of the reach of children. Inspectors may also query teachers on their guidance and discipline techniques and ask for lesson plans and evidence of appropriate educational activities.
Parents may feel dismayed at the seemingly low standards required by many states. The high cost of screening and training staff is paid for by day-care centers, and is passed on to consumers. As states make regulations, they strive to provide rules that keep children safe, while keeping day-care affordable for parents. When looking for day care, seek out programs that voluntarily maintain higher standards than those required by the state. Government programs, such as Headstart, and those associated with universities often receive federal or state funding. This allows them to provide quality programs at reasonable tuition rates.