A Snapshot of Quality in Minnesota's Child Care Centers : A Report of the Minnesota Child Care Policy Research Partnership

The Minnesota Child Care Policy Research Partnership conducted the first statewide observational study of quality in child care centers. The primary objectives of the study are to inform policymakers about the level of quality observed in child care centers; the characteristics of programs providing higher quality care; and the resources needed by child care centers to improve quality.

The researchers randomly selected 100 classrooms serving children 3 to 5 years old in child care centers across Minnesota from the 850 child care centers in the state. The study utilized nationally recognized observational tools to rate teacher interactions and document classroom activities. Directors and teachers were asked to provide professional information about themselves. 

The study found that only 25% of the centers studied offered high quality care, 71% offered a standard, minimal level of care, and 4% offered substandard care. 

Directors identified three resources they would find helpful in improving program quality: funding to improve program operations (additional money and other forms of financial assistance, including grants, loans and scholarships), support from CCR&R agencies and other early childhood professionals and training/continuing education opportunities for staff.

The Minnesota Child Care Policy Research Partnership is conducting six interrelated studies which will be available online at: http://www.dhs.state.mn.us/main/groups/ children/documents/pub/DHS_id_008779.hcsp.