Offering definitions, activities, examples of model programs, and reproducible forms and checklists, this guide will help early childhood program directors and administrators seeking third-party endorsements and accreditation. It overviews key components and content areas of third-party quality-endorsement systems, and briefly describes specific systems, such as the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the National Early Childhood Program Accreditation (NECPA), and various environmental rating scales. The guide gives advice on staff qualifications and the role of professional development in endorsement, and outlines steps for evaluating and making improvements in content areas such as the physical environment, safety, teaching and learning, and family and community involvement. There is also guidance on paperwork requirements. Appendices offer sample action plans, timelines, checklists, quizzes, family surveys, and training worksheets. Robertson is a professional development and education quality consultant. Dressler is an education consultant. Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)