Centre Observation Checklist
(Print 3 pages)
Daily Routines:
- Children greeted warmly upon arrival
- Warning children of upcoming transitions (“5 minutes until snack time”)
- Meal and snack times relaxed and pleasant, yet organized
- Nap times relaxed- space available for children who don’t nap
- Consistent routine while allowing flexibility for individual circumstances
-
Field trips or enrichment activites part of the program
Environment:
- Areas for quiet play and reading provided
- Books/ library accessible
- Art supplies available
- Pretend play / housekeeping area available
- Blocks, puzzles and games available
- Toys that are age appropriate and in good condition
- Interesting age appropriate activities
- Outdoor play area- equipment in good condition, safe, fenced and litter free
- Surfaces disinfected during the day
- Safety gates in use
- Medicines, poisons and cleaners locked away
- First aid kit
- Smoke detectors
- Covered heaters and / or radiators
- Good light, heat / air conditioning and ventilation
- Alternate fire escape or exit
-
Emergency procedures and evacuation routes established, posted and
practiced?
Staff
- Individual attention given to children without favoritism
- Use calm voices
- Are attentive to children’s needs
- Good supervision
- Are patient
- Listen to the children when they speak
- React calmly to children’s disagreements and assist children to help resolve the issue
- Use gentle touch
- Try to redirect children’s activities when needed
- Nurturing
- Follow a positive approach to discipline through education rather than punishment
- Have required first aid training
- Involved in continuing education programs
-
Seem interact well together.
Program:
- Children look happy
- Children are encouraged to explore the environment and provided choices
- Each child has a consistent primary caregiver or group of primary caregivers
- Opportunities provided for parent and educator communication and information exchange
- Opportunities for parents to meet and be involved in group activities
- Security policies and procedures implemented and evaluated regularly
After the Visit
- Were you given a comprehensive packet of information on the center?
- Were the staff open and responsive to your questions?
- Do you have any unanswered questions?