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What to Look for

Find It CambridgeThere are many different options for early childhood education and care, and it can be confusing to figure out what program would be best for your child and family. A great place to start looking is on the website Find It Cambridge.

To help you get started, here are a few filtered searches::

You can narrow the search by clicking on Cost or Location in the purple section at the top of the screen -- and then click the orange button, Filter results.

B3 LogoOnce you have some programs picked out to consider, contact them and ask them some questions, or visit if you can. Some questions to think and ask about:

  • Location, hours, holidays, program closures & back-up plan if a provider is ill 
  • Age range of children licensed to care for, size of the group and ratio of adults to children
  • Cost and availability of tuition assistance - state subsidies and program scholarships
  • Qualifications of staff and staff turnover
  • Accreditation and QRIS program quality ratings
  • Health and Safety—cleanliness inside and outside
  • Games, toys, equipment, environment, and curriculum. Do they match the age of the children and reflect diversity in the community? Are things in good condition? 
  • How much outdoor space is available and what activities are planned for outside?
  • Are parents encouraged to play an active role? What participation is required?
  • Do the children seem happy?