A tool for parents to use in selecting quality childcare that best meets the needs of their family. Reviews foundational elements of childcare, such as health and safety features, while explaining educational strategies, including styles of teaching and daily classroom activities. Also covers types of specialized childcare, such as infant care and childcare for children with special needs, reviews Transitional Kindergarten, and discusses when children are ready to transition from preschool to Kindergarten. --Publisher's description.

License, accreditation, and policies -- Models of learning -- Classroom placement -- Health and safety standards -- Quality early childhood educators -- Quality curriculum and the developmentally appropriate environment -- Childcare for children with special needs -- Infant childcare -- The kindergarten controversy -- Appendix 1. Early childhood vocabulary -- Appendix 2. Resources on early childhood education and development -- Appendix 3. Questions to ask when touring a childcare program.