If you need to find care for your child, one possibility is a licensed Child Development Center (CDC). CDCs provide care, supervision, and guidance for children on an ongoing basis. Unlike licensed Child Development Homes (CDH), these programs are located in buildings approved by local zoning authorities for use as a child development program and not in the residence of the caregiver (owner).

Licensed CDCs are regulated by the DC Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE). CDCs provide care to children in classrooms based on age groups and incorporate various learning activities to support each child’s growth, development, and education. CDCs offer care in a structured, formalized style and adapt the schedule of activities for the different age groups in care. CDCs are typically licensed to care for more children than a CDH and employ multiple caregivers and staff.

Some parents like the structure that this type of care offers and are more comfortable using CDCs. They also like that their children can socialize with peers from different age groups.

When choosing a licensed CDC, it is important to find a setting you are comfortable with and a caregiver who shares your attitudes and values about children. Using this checklist, plan to visit the CDC to talk and observe the caregiver with the children.

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