Follow the applicable requirements
Required criminal-history, registry and fingerprint checks vary by state and program. Use the current licensing authority’s instructions and repeat checks when required. Insurance applications should accurately describe the process.
References and employment history
Verify identity, prior childcare employment, unexplained gaps, eligibility for rehire and role-specific qualifications. Document the process consistently and comply with employment and consumer-reporting laws.
Control access
Define who may be alone with children, how visitors and contractors enter, how volunteers are supervised and how pickup authorization is confirmed. Consider building layout and visibility—not just written rules.
Train and report
Employees should understand professional boundaries, prohibited conduct, escalation procedures, mandatory-reporting duties and non-retaliation. Document training and act promptly on complaints or warning signs.