Having regular inspections is crucial for any licensed daycare. The goal of a checkup is to ensure that the establishment is up to code and ready to be granted a license. Safety-related regulations heavily weigh the long list of criteria for childcare facilities. If you're opening a daycare, meeting those standards should be at the top of your to-do list.
3 Essential Tips to Ace Your Daycare Inspection
Each state has its own set of regulations for licensing, so it's a good idea to double-check the laws in your state. However, the following characteristics are shared by virtually all audits. Start with these areas as you get ready for your next inspection, and be sure to include any state-specific regulations that apply.
1. Prepare the Daycare Premises
Multiple things could go wrong with the overall premises. Know your space's maximum number of occupants and keep the child-to-adult ratio reasonable. Next comes the maintenance of electrical, HVAC, building, and fence systems. You should also baby-proof the area, storing any sharp or dangerous in a secure location where kids can't get to them. Young children should also be kept away from window coverings. Upgrade the Playgrounds
Surfaces must be made of a soft substance, such as dirt or mulch, rather than hard ones, like asphalt or concrete. There shouldn't be any pests or animal waste on the lawn. Get rid of any potential trip hazards. Although wading pools are sometimes permitted, they are often not encouraged. Reduce the potential for unintentional drowning by using sprinklers and other water toys. Check out the Licensed Child Care Center Checklist here.
2. Ensure Safety against Fire and Carbon Monoxide
Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in every room. Carbon monoxide detectors should be set at least five feet above the floor or as directed by the manufacturer, while smoke detectors should be mounted on the ceiling. All rooms used for child care must have two readily accessible exits that are always kept clear. Find out what kind of placement and size restrictions your state has. Sprinklers are a nice addition as well.
3. Set Up Important Documents & Certifications
There should be no hiccups during your inspection. Be prepared for questions about your CPR and First Aid certifications by keeping them in a readily accessible location, such as a bulletin board or a single folder where everyone can see them. All enrollment and participant documentation must be in order. It includes the following daycare forms:
· Parent's survey
· Daily reports
· Accident forms
· Preschool lesson plans
· Daycare late payment notice form
· Medication authorization form
· Permission to photograph form
· Permission for outings form
· Daycare safety plan
· Daycare journal and planners
· And more!
You can find all these daycare forms and learning materials at Standout Daycare Shop. We make sure you have everything you need to run a first-rate daycare and wow inspectors, parents, and children.
Get Your Daycare License with Standout Daycare
Being an FCC-approved provider requires a lot of collaboration and open lines of communication with your licensor to make minor adjustments like these. It's very normal for your licensor to request a few tweaks or adjustments before you launch.
Whether you are an established daycare provider or starting out, Standout Daycare can help you meet your licensing requirements and provide the best services. In addition to daycare resources, we offer multiple daycare training sessions and networking opportunities. Become a Standout Daycare Member to enjoy numerous benefits. Contact us today for more information.
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