Discusses factors to be considered in the process of constructing facilities for a new child care center. Factors are addressed in terms of three alternatives: building a new center, incorporating a center into a new building, and renovating an existing center. (GLR)

Covers leasing of commercial space for child care centers, either as an enhancement to a developer's project or on a commercial basis in competition with other types of commercial development. Discusses different negotiating psychologies and key negotiating points to be used in each leasing situation. (NH)

Examines general principles in designing child care centers and preschools: (1) design the site and building so that it has a friendly, child-like, inviting image; and (2) design child development environments to be child scaled, including furnishings, materials, the building, and the site as a whole. Contains criteria and suggestions for…

Notes that the location of any child care center is a key factor in its success. Provides four major objectives to consider when siting a center: (1) the center as a part of the community; (2) access and visibility; (3) desirable and undesirable surroundings; and (4) characteristics of the site itself. (SD)