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Structural indicators of quality child care
are indicators that can be impacted by policy.
Research identifies at least five consistent variables: group size,
ratio of children to staff, administrative stability, staff turnover,
provider education. In
California, the Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing,
oversees both center-based and family child care. Minimum health and safety concerns are addressed with
regulations for group size, ratios, provider training in CPR and health,
and fingerprint clearance. However,
current licensing requirements do not address the quality standard
specific to a child’s development.
Research indicates that accreditation of providers, reduced
provider turnover, and education in child development enhance the quality
of care situations. |
