All site visits follow the same protocols—what differs is the purpose of the visit.

Accreditation+ Visit

A planned visit for programs applying for or renewing Accreditation+. The visit occurs within a six-month window.

Random Visit

An announced or unannounced visit where programs at the Accreditation and Accreditation+ tiers may be selected at any time.

Verification Visit

A visit that may occur after a serious incident to confirm the program continues to meet accreditation requirements. These visits are completed within three months of being issued.

Review these resources carefully – they will help you prepare for a successful site visit. 

• Site Visit Protocols: Provides an overview of what programs can expect during NAEYC site visits that include observation-based assessment items. 
• Site Visit Checklist: A practical readiness checklist to help programs prepare for their upcoming site visit. 
• Observation Tool: Contains the observation-based assessment items and guidance used by NAEYC assessors during site visits. Programs are encouraged to use this tool to conduct mock observations in classrooms and learning environments, ensuring that key interactions and practices are aligned with assessment expectations. 
• Site Visit Forms: Detailed documents used by Assessors during the site visit, including interview questions for orientation and closing meetings.

A little preparation can help the visit run smoothly. Here are a few things to keep in mind: 

• Confirm your program information, hours of operation, address, closure dates, classes and staff listed in the Early Learning Hub is current and accurate. 
• Once you hear from your assessor, let your staff know who will be visiting and what to expect. * 
• Continue with your regular schedule and routines — no need to adjust for the visit. 

Tip: Many directors find it helpful to share a short “what to expect” note with staff and families ahead of time.

*Most site visits will include advance notice from the assessor at least 7 days before the visit, but no later than 2pm on the day prior. Approximately 1% of random visits will occur without prior notification. 

During your site visit, assessors will: 

• Conduct an opening meeting with the program administrator to discuss the general schedule of the day, confirm classroom information, receive a tour of the program and learning environments, and discuss the logistics of the visit. Click here for the forms used by the assessor, which include the interview questions. 
• Observe classrooms, program areas, and daily routines 
• Follow the natural flow of your program’s schedule 
• Ask brief clarifying questions to educators and/or administrators, if needed 
• Complete a closing meeting with the program administrator to share some feedback from their time at the program, ask some additional questions, review visit forms, and discuss next steps 

Your onsite program leader may receive short updates or check-ins during the visit to keep communication clear and transparent. 

Remember: Assessors are looking for what’s typical in your program — not perfection.

Once the visit is complete, the assessor submits their notes through our submission process for review and scoring. 

Within 45 days of the visit, you will receive an email notification with the results of the site visit. You will be able to view the detailed results in the Early Learning Hub under “Site Visit History”.