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IDEM > Your Community > 5 Star Childcare 5 Star Childcare

Parents and child care providers in Indiana can now have peace of mind that Hoosier children can attend an environmentally healthy child care; one that promotes healthy development in young children free from pesticides, harmful chemicals, lead paint hazards, radon, and other often invisible environmental health threats.

The 5-Star Environmental Recognition Program for Child Care Facilities ensures child care providers have taken steps to reduce and eliminate hazards that can cause permanent, long term developmental problems in young children.

Child care facilities (licensed homes and centers and registered ministries) can apply by completing the application (now available on the IDEM Forms page) and self assessment [PDF]. The program is completely voluntary and each facility chooses the number of stars they’d like to apply for (1, 3, or 5).

The Indiana Department of Environmental Management wants every facility to be successful. Applicants receive a lead risk assessment, radon test, on-site confidential assistance, and no idling signs for no charge. Members receive a plaque, window clings, use of the 5-Star Logo, press release, reusable grocery bags, light switch plates, mention on the website, and a quarterly mailing that includes materials such as posters, stickers, magnets, and brochures to distribute to families.

For more information, call (800) 988-7901.

5-Star Program Criteria

See the application for a current and complete list of requirements (application now available on the IDEM Forms page).

To achieve one star, the facility should:

  • Complete the self assessment;
  • Ensure the building is clean and well maintained;
  • Provide hazard communication training for employees;
  • Flush cold-water pipes 30 seconds daily before first use; and,
  • Never store pesticides at the facility.

To achieve three stars, the facility should:

  • Meet all one star requirements;
  • Implements a 100% tobacco free facility and grounds;
  • Perform a radon test;
  • Implement integrated pest management strategies;
  • Check for lead hazards in water, soil, dust, and paint chips;
  • Discourage idling vehicles near entrances/exits; and,
  • Contact utility company to identify PCB containing transformers.

To achieve five stars, the facility should:

  • Meet all one and three star requirements;
  • Remove pets with fur or feathers;
  • Recycle; and,
  • Replace disposable utensils and plates with reusable dishware.

For Parents

For Child Care Providers

National Praise for Indiana's 5-Star Environmental Recognition Program for Child Care Facilities

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