Parents prefer trained child-care providers who offer a variety of activities

A recent survey of 147 area families showed the three top child-care facility qualities indicated by parents/guardians were: 1) providers and caregivers are trained; 2) facilities are registered or licensed by the state and; 3) the facility provides a curriculum and activities for children throughout the day.

State law says any person providing care for more than two children on a regular basis must be registered or licensed by the state. "Regular basis" is defined as "providing care to children of separate families for any daily periods of less than 24 hours and within three or more consecuti...