The Early Childhood Investment Corporation (ECIC), which funds the production and distribution of EduGuide's Start magazine, conducted a survey of Start readers in late 2007 to find out which elements of their child care arrangements — including in-home sitters and daycare after school — parents and providers value most. Following are the most popular answers to the question, “What does quality child care mean to you?”
- Safe, clean environment
- Loving, nurturing atmosphere
- Happy, comfortable children
- Developmental learning activities
- Evidence of healthy foods for kids
- Stability
- Reliable, attentive care
- Children treated with respect and dignity