You're Doing Great, Mom and Dad: Practical Tips for Choosing Childcare

As a parent, choosing the right childcare facility for your child will be one of the most crucial decisions you make. It is important to choose a childcare center that provides a nurturing and safe environment for your child, and one that aligns itself with your family values and your needs. This article will walk you through the selection process for the perfect childcare facility for your little one.

Understanding Your Needs

Consider your family's needs before you begin your search. You should consider the age and type of care your child needs. Do you need full-time or part-time care? What are your coverage hours? Consider the location of the childcare center and how it fits into your daily commute. Lastly, decide on your budget and the amount you can spend on childcare.

Types of Childcare Centers

There are several types of childcare centers to choose from, each with its own unique philosophy and approach to early childhood education. Some of the most common childcare centers include:

• The daycare centers offer general supervision and care to children.
• Preschools: The focus of preschools is to prepare children for kindergarten by providing structured learning activities.
• Montessori schools - These centers use the Montessori Method, which emphasizes independent learning and hands-on experience.
• Reggio Emilia schools - This approach emphasizes project-based learning, and encourages students to express their creativity through various media.
• Waldorf Schools: Waldorf education emphasizes imagination, creativity, and experiential learning.
• Religiously affiliated centers: These facilities incorporate religious values and teachings into their curriculum.
• Corporate-sponsored centers. Some employers provide childcare services on their premises as a perk to employees.

License and Accreditation

In evaluating childcare facilities, it's vital to verify that they comply with state licensing and adhere to safety and health standards. Look for centers licensed by either the department of Human Services or Department of Education in your state.

Some childcare centers are accredited by organizations other than the state. These include the National Association for the Education of Young Children, or the National Association for Family Child Care. Accreditation shows that the center is committed to quality improvement and has met strict standards.

Safety and Health

If you are choosing a child care center, the safety and health of your children should be at the top of your list. Choose centers that do thorough background screenings on their staff members, and who maintain the appropriate ratio of caregivers to children. The center must have secure entryways, child-proof zones, and well maintained outdoor play areas.

Inform yourself about the cleanliness of the facility, including its diaper changing practices and handwashing rituals. Ask about their sick-child policies and emergency medical procedures. A reputable facility should have a comprehensive plan for emergency preparedness.

Curriculum and Teaching Philosophy

Check if the educational approach of the center is compatible with your child and family values. Seek out activities that support cognitive, social, emotional and physical development.

Some centers emphasize play-based educational activities, while other have a focus more on academics. Inquire about creativity, selfexpression, and outdoor activities. Ask how technology is integrated into the curriculum.

Staff Qualifications And Training

The staff's expertise and commitment is key to the quality of any childcare center. Ask about the level of education and certification required for caregivers and teachers. Ideal staff should be educated in early childhood or related fields.

Ask about the turnover rate and if there are any opportunities for staff to receive ongoing training. A low level of staff turnover indicates a positive environment for the center and consistency in care.

Communication and parent involvement

It is important that parents and caregivers communicate openly to ensure a positive childcare experience. Ask how the centre keeps parents up-to-date on their child’s progress and activities. Regular updates, such as daily reports or weekly newsletters, can help you stay connected and involved.

Find out about family events and parent-teacher meetings. Parents may be invited to volunteer at some centers or a parent advisory council is formed in order to encourage involvement.

Equipment and Facilities

You can tour the center to determine the safety and quality of the services. You should look for well-maintained and clean indoor areas with appropriate furniture and materials. Outdoor play spaces should be safe and secure with appropriate equipment, and plenty of room for children to explore.

You can also ask about technology resources such as tablets or computers and their use in supporting learning.

Nutrition and Meals

If the childcare center provides meals and snacks, inquire about their nutrition policies. Find centers that provide healthy, balanced meals and can accommodate special dietary requirements. Inquire about the food safety procedures and how the meals are prepared.

Schedule a tour and evaluation

Before making a final decision, schedule a tour of the childcare centers you are considering. During the visit, watch how the caregivers interact and play with children. Are the caregivers attentive, patient and nurturing in their approach? Are the children happy and comfortable?

Ask the staff questions about their educational philosophy, policies and procedures. Be sure to trust your instincts. Pay attention to any red-flags or concerns you may notice during your trip.

Making a final decision

Compare the different centers according to your preferences and needs. You should consider factors such as safety issues, educational standards, staff qualifications and overall atmosphere.

You should trust your gut and select the center which feels the most comfortable for you and your child. Once you've made your decision, inquire about enrollment procedures and any waitlists that may be in place. As you work with the centre to create a smoother transition for your children, ensure that they are prepared.

FAQ

What's the difference between daycare centers and preschools?

While daycare centers are able to provide general care, supervision and education for children of varying ages; preschools aim to prepare the children for Kindergarten through structured learning. Preschools often have a more educational focus and may follow a specific curriculum.

How can I tell if a childcare center is licensed and accredited?

Contact the department of human service or education in your state to determine if there is a license for a childcare facility. The department can give you information about the licensing status of a center and any violations. You can verify accreditation by contacting the accrediting body, such as NAEYC and NAFCC. Or, you can ask the center to provide proof of accreditation.

What should I look for during a tour of a childcare center?

Observe the interaction between caregivers, and the children. Search for a safe, welcoming, and clean environment with age appropriate learning equipment and materials. You can ask questions about the policies, curriculum and qualifications of staff at the center. Do not ignore any concerns that you might have.