Choosing a Day Care Center

Child Care for Your Baby or Preschooler Is an Important Decision

Jan 25, 2008

When returning to work, you want to be sure the Daycare Center you choose provides nurturing and safety for your baby, toddler or preschooler.

The moment your child was born, he or she became the most important person in your life. When it is time for you to return to work, whether they are still infants or are toddlers, you want to make sure they are well cared for in your absence. But what types of things do you look for? How do you know when a day care center is right for your child?

Remember, most day care centers have limited openings. If you are planning on returning to work shortly after the birth of your child, you will want to begin your search even before you give birth. That way, you will feel more relaxed and will be able to enjoy the time you have to spend with your baby.

If you do not work close to home, decide if you want your baby close to home or close to your job. There are pros and cons to both choices. For one, if your child is close to your job location, it will not take you long to get there should something be wrong or if your child becomes ill. However, if you take public transportation to work, it may be an inconvenience to bring a baby along with you each morning and it may be easier to have your child in a center close to home. This decision will need to be made based on your individual situation.

Narrow Down Your Choices With a Visit

Once you decide on the area, visit a number of day care centers. For your initial visit, you may want to call ahead and make an appointment. This will give you time to ask the director or teachers questions about the center and their policies. Once you narrow down your choices to one or two centers, you may want to pop in at unexpected times (try to time these around play time rather than nap time) to see how the children and teachers interact when they are not expecting “company.” You might also want to time visits for normal pick up times to give you a chance to chat with other parents, asking about their experiences, what they like and don’t like about the center and their overall satisfaction with the care their child receives.

When visiting the centers, bring a notebook with you and be armed with a list of questions to ask. Writing down responses can help you compare the different centers once you are home and more relaxed.

Always ask about licensing. Be sure the center has the appropriate state and local licenses. You can also check with the local Chamber of Commerce to find out if there have been any complaints about the center.

Give Yourself Plenty of Time to Make the Right Decision

Take your time with the decision. If anyone puts pressure on you to make a decision, such as “you really should decide today, I can’t be sure this opening will be available tomorrow,” find out if this particular day care is that much in demand and be sure that it is where you want your child to be before committing to anything.

Your friends and co-workers might be able to give you feedback on the day care centers their children attend. Based on their recommendations, you might be able to narrow down your choices. Keep in mind, however, that every family’s situation is different and what is right for one family may not be right for your family. Make a decision based on your particular needs, rather than the recommendation of a friend.