Understanding Child Care

4 Tips For Selecting A Quality Child Care Facility

15 November 2016

Victoria Jimenez

As a parent, it is natural to want the best care possible for your child. But many parents find the process of finding a quality child care center a confusing and daunting task. If you will need child care in the near future, avoid the following common mistakes:

Waiting Until the Last Minute

Space in quality child care centers is limited, and it can take time to find the perfect place for your child. Ideally, you should begin your search for a child care center while you are still pregnant. This will give you time to research and tour different facilities until you find one that you feel will be a good fit for your family. Some child care centers have waitlists, so the sooner you get on the list, the more likely there will be a spot for your child when you return to work after your maternity leave.

Not Checking References

A parent's gut instinct is powerful, but it is still important to check the references of a child care center before you commit to taking your child there. A reputable child care center should not have a problem providing references upon request; take the time to call the families to learn more about the center and what other parents think about their experience with it.

Neglecting to Know What to Look For

Knowledge is one of your biggest tools when it comes to searching for a child care center. Make sure you do some research to learn about appropriate child-to-caregiver ratios for babies and young children, the type of training that child caregivers should have, and any health codes that child care centers are required to follow. When you are armed with this information, you will be able to ask important questions when visiting different child care facilities.

Failing to Think Long Term

Most parents want a child care situation that will serve their family for several years; it is much easier for you and your child to stay in one place and to be cared for in a facility where he or she feels safe and secure. When looking at child care facilities, don't just think about your child's needs as a baby—also inquire about the services provided for toddlers and preschoolers. Ideally, you want to choose a child care facility that will be a good place for your child until he or she starts elementary school. 

For more information, contact establishments such as Kid's Country Child Care & Learning Center.

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