Verification Visit Protocol
Verification Visit Pre-Visit Protocol
Sample Verification Visit Forms
Random Unannounced Visit FAQs

All NAEYC-Accredited programs are eligible to receive random unannounced visits throughout their 5-year accreditation term.  Random unannounced visits reassure families, employers, and others that they can rely on NAEYC’s Accreditation system. These visits help to ensure that all programs are continuing to meet the 10 NAEYC Early Childhood Program Standards and Accreditation Criteria, so that children benefit from high-quality early learning experiences.

• NAEYC utilizes a system-generated tool to randomly select programs proportionally from each state and region to receive random unannounced visits.  
• There is no fee associated with random unnanounced visits.
• Programs will not receive any prior notification of a random unannounced visit.
• During a random unannounced visit, the NAEYC Assessor(s) will evaluate your program through observation and a review of documentation related to Required Criteria, which are fundamental to program quality.  Portfolio and Survey evidence will not be reviewed during a verification visit.
• Following a random unannounced visit, a program will maintain its NAEYC Accreditation if it demonstrates that all observed groups are meeting at least 70% of assessed criteria and all Required Criteria are met.