CDC Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CDC facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What is the purpose of the CACFP's 'disallow' process? → To deny reimbursement for meals that do not meet program requirements
2. According to Erikson, what is the primary psychological task for infants during the first year of life? → Establishing basic trust through consistent caregiving
3. A parent conference agenda should be shared with parents in advance primarily because: → It allows parents to prepare talking points and reduces anxiety about the meeting
4. What is the primary sleep-position risk factor most strongly associated with SIDS? → Stomach or side sleeping position
5. Which of the following is considered a safe sleep environment for infants in a licensed daycare setting? → A firm, flat surface with a fitted sheet only
6. A family enrolled in subsidized childcare through CCDBG has a change in income that may affect their eligibility. Ethically and legally, the provider should: → Advise the family of their obligation to report the change to the subsidy agency
7. What is the recommended ratio of caregivers to infants (under 12 months) in most US state-licensed daycare settings? → 1:4
8. Under CACFP infant meal patterns, what is the correct breast milk or iron-fortified infant formula requirement for a 4-month-old at a reimbursable meal? → 4–6 fl oz
9. Which practice helps prevent child abuse in a daycare setting? → Using open-door policies and visible supervision at all times
10. Under CACFP, which documentation must a family day care home provider maintain for each enrolled child? → Enrollment forms with meal count records
11. What is the primary ethical obligation of a CDC professional when a conflict of interest arises during age-appropriate curriculum design activities? → Disclose the conflict to all relevant parties and recuse from the decision if necessary
12. Which federal guidance document is commonly used by US schools and childcare programs to develop active threat response protocols? → FEMA's 'Guide for Developing High-Quality School Emergency Operations Plans'
13. What is the significance of social-emotional development in early childhood? → It is crucial for lifelong relationships
14. A child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has difficulty with transitions. Which inclusion strategy is MOST effective? → Use visual schedules and advance warnings before transitions
15. Under current CACFP meal pattern rules, which type of milk must be served to children ages 2 and older? → Unflavored low-fat (1%) or fat-free milk
16. A new staff member asks why ratio violations are considered serious licensing infractions. Which answer best reflects the regulatory reasoning? → Adequate ratios directly correlate with child safety and developmental quality outcomes
17. Which of the following is a mandated reporter's obligation when they suspect child abuse or neglect? → Report suspicions immediately to Child Protective Services or law enforcement
18. Which scenario would most likely require a 'shelter-in-place' response rather than a fire drill evacuation? → A hazardous chemical release in the outdoor air near the center
19. How can daycare providers support language development in children? → Engaging in conversation, reading, and encouraging expression
20. When observing a child for developmental assessment purposes, which method provides the most detailed and authentic data? → Taking running records of natural play behavior
21. A caregiver reads aloud to infants daily even before they understand words. What is the PRIMARY developmental benefit? → Building vocabulary, language exposure, and emotional bonding
22. Which nutrient is most commonly deficient in toddlers who drink excessive amounts of cow's milk (more than 24 oz/day)? → Iron
23. Which approach best supports a child's intrinsic motivation to learn? → Providing choice, autonomy, and genuine praise for effort
24. A licensed daycare facility must renew its license annually. If the renewal application is submitted after the expiration date, the facility must: → Cease operations immediately until a new license is issued
25. Why is active supervision important in a daycare setting? → To ensure safety and engagement
26. When a staff member is terminated for a licensing-related violation, the licensing agency may: → Place the individual's name on a childcare disqualification registry
27. Under CACFP, what is the minimum age at which a child transitions from the infant meal pattern to the child meal pattern? → 12 months
28. Which handwashing duration is recommended by the CDC for effective removal of germs after diapering or toileting assistance? → At least 20 seconds
29. Which of the following is a characteristic of an authoritative guidance style? → Providing warmth while setting clear, consistent boundaries
30. An early childhood educator disagrees with a new policy introduced by the facility director. The most professionally ethical approach is to: → Express concerns through appropriate internal channels while complying with the policy