Choosing the RIGHT daycare provider
Choosing a daycare provider is not always an easy task. You need to find someone that you can trust, that your child likes, someone who likes your child and the weekly fee fits into your budget. Not all daycares are created equal. There are some important things to remember that will help make your decision easier.
1. Interview more then one provider: Just like in daily life there will be people that you just don’t gel with. Ask many questions on what there childcare rearing styles and philosophies are.
2. Call references: Get to know the provider through the eyes of other parents. Look at the whole picture before deciding on the best person to care for your child.
3. Ask about education: there are all kinds of education that a provider might choose. She may take individual training classes, be working on a CDA or even have a degree in early childhood education. The more training your provider has, the more knowledgeable she is about the developmental needs of children.
4. Background checks: Make sure your provider has passed her background checks. Not all states require them, so be aware of your states regulations. You can also check for any non compliance with your state/county licensing agency.
5. Open door policy: Find a provider that has an open door policy so you can drop in and check on your child anytime you want.
6. General questions: Of course you will want to ask the simple questions. Hours, fees, payment dates, what they eat etc are all important.
7. My biggest tip of all is to go with your gut instinct. You will know if it is the right place. You must feel comfortable leaving your child because if you aren’t, your kids will feel that. If you have even one ounce of doubt, keep looking.
I have had interviews that have been short and some very long and through. I love it when a parent comes and asks all kinds of questions and tries to get to know me before placing their child into my home daycare.
