What are some critical steps to making a good childcare choice?
Transferees with children often need to find new daycare with a minimum of disruption. We suggest these tested tips when investigating new childcare options:
- Make a list.
Make a list of qualities you want and need from a provider, like hours of care, size of group, location, costs and physical setting.
- Contact agencies.
Contact local government childcare and social service agencies to find out about childcare licensing standards and programs available.
- Schedule appointments.
Schedule appointments to visit providers. Visit alone the first time to discuss fees and to observe the children, the program and the caregiver without distractions.
- Get references.
Ask for (and follow up on) references from parents who have used the provider. Would they send their child there again? What were their likes and dislikes?
- Examine policies.
Request information about the provider’s policies, procedures and responsibilities.
- Go back again.
Revisit the provider with the child to see how the child and provider get along.
- Be involved.
Choose the program you and your children are most comfortable with. Remember to be involved with the provider and monitor the situation carefully.
