How to Choose a Child Care Center
It’s tough being away from your child, but you can rest a little easier when you choose a child care center that is trustworthy, sanitary, flexible and one where child supervision is of utmost importance. Here are some great tips on finding a center that’s a great match for your needs and one where your child will be able to learn and thrive.
Before you visit a center…
- Call the Childcare Aware Hotline at 800-424-2246 and ask for the locations of accredited centers in your area. A stamp of approval from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) or the National Association of Family Child Care (NAFCC) is a good sign. Never sign up for a child care center before you check it out yourself, although it might be accredited, you still need to see it and feel the “vibe” of the location yourself to make sure it’ll work for both you and your child.
- Consider location, the age/s of your child/children and price. Child care may seem very expensive but remember, these centers are providing your children with care and meaningful activities to aid in their social and intellectual development. Decide what such a service is worth to you before you ask the cost of a center.
- Call areas in your preferred city and inquire about cost. If it is within your budget, ask to schedule a tour at a time when children will be present.
Questions to ask the Child Care Director…
- What is the child to adult ratio? It should be no higher than 4:1 for babies, 8:1 for children 1-3 years of age and 12:1 for children 4 years and above. This may be regulated by your state, always check to make sure the center is in compliance with the law.
- Are the children in the center separated by age? (This helps to prevent the spread of disease and illness.)
- Is medicine given to the children? If so, there should be a nurse on staff. What happens if your child gets sick? How and when will you be contacted?
- What vaccinations and physical exams are required for your child?
- Is a record of illness and injury kept for each child? Will you receive documentation? (You should.)
- What training have staff members gone through? Are they certified in early childhood education? Are they trained in first aid, injury prevention and abused child identification?
- Is there a hand washing policy in place?
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