Finding a new daycare can be a stressful process for everyone involved. There is finding an opening, going to the interview, making a final decision and of course all the emotions surrounding the first day. Here are some tips on what to look for when looking at an in-home daycare.
How Many Kids are in the Daycare
Finding out how many kids are at the daycare gives parents an idea of the activity level at the house. If there are too many kids some might get left out or not get as much attention. If there are too few kids they might get bored with no one to play with. This is important when placing an infant so parents know the baby will have good socialization from an early age. Older kids might like a child their own age or a little older to play with. Whatever the age of the child they need attention from their caregiver.
Supplies
Kids not only need a lot of attention through the day but a lot of supplies too. A daycare should be able to provide age appropriate toys, places to rest and places to eat. Infants should have a crib of their own as not every infant is on the same schedule. Remember to ask each potential provider what the family needs to provide. These items might include formula, diapers and or wipes. Parents can feel good leaving their kids when they know they have everything they need to be happy and safe through the day.
Curriculum
What kid wouldn't want to play all day? While having time to play is important, it is just as important to have structured time set aside for learning. Normally this is done in a group or circle time and usually includes a lot of songs. Older kids should also get craft time which among other things helps them learn to sit at a table and work. It is fun when kids come home all excited about a new song or craft they made that day.
Discipline
Discipline is a big topic that needs to discussed at the first meeting. Views on discipline can vary greatly from one person to another. Both the parents and the provider need to be comfortable with the discipline tactic used or this might not be a good fit. At no time should a child be physically injured or have food witheld as a form of punishment. Having the same behavior requirements at home and daycare really will benefit the children so they don't get confused. No one expects kids to be perfect, but kids expect discipline measures to be consistent.
Feeling
One of the most important things when meeting with a potential daycare is the feeling everyone gets when visiting and talking with the provider. It is said that kids are an excellent judge of character so parents should bring them to tour the daycare. Parents and kids alike should feel welcome and walk away wanting to go back. Parents need to know they can trust and be open with the person they chose. Everyone in the family needs to feel comfortable with the decision for the daycare to be a good fit.
Picking a daycare can be a very difficult and overwhelming decision to make. Everyone involved will have their own feelings about the changing situation. No one should feel pressured into making a decision. Take the time to ask all the questions on the list. Knowing what to look for while walking into the first meeting will help the family pick the perfect daycare.
Jenee DePetra - Hi my name is Jenee DePetra I have two little boys ages 7 years and 6 months who keep me busy and active. Being a single mom has taught ...
