Question:

What questions should I ask when evaluating a daycare?

Compare Programs

Don't settle on the first day care center you find. Try to check out several different programs in your area to see what is available, and then compare. Make sure the center you choose has enough staff members to serve the needs of all their children, that they have a positive and friendly attitude, and that they understand and enjoy watching children learn and grow!

Records and Certifications

Always check the records of a day care center with local and state authorities including local child care councils. The last thing you want to do is place your child in less-than-adequate care. You should also ask to see all certifications -- day care, first aid and CPR.

Observe the Daycare

One of the best ways to determine if a day care is right for your child is by observation. If possible, visit the site and watch the daily routine of the staff. Be sure there is a variety of interesting activities that encourage learning and that the facility is clean, safe and the equipment is up-to-date.

Be Straightforward

When asking questions, be straightforward. The teachers should have some sort of communication log or daily report that is helpful. If not, suggest it. If they do, but it`s not enough for you, don`t be afraid to ask what you want to know. It`s their job to know and to let you know.

Staff-to-Child Ratio

When interviewing a potential day care provider, you should ask about the staff-to-child ratio. Do they watch their own children in addition to others? And, if so, are those children included in their ratio?

Daycare Frequently Asked Questions

What questions should I ask when evaluating a daycare?

How do I know if a center is right for my family?

What is home/family daycare and how do I find one ?

What playground safety precautions should I take with my child?

What can I do to raise community awareness for my daycare?

How can I make my child feel liked and accepted?

How do I stop my child from copying bad habits?

How do I choose a private sitter when I donīt know anyone who babysits

How can I help reduce child care costs?

What do I do when my child is agressive at daycare but not at home?

How can I raise the profile of children and childcare in the community

What is the difference between a nanny and an au pair ?

What information should be included in a home medical record?

My child is going on a field trip. What can I do to help?

What is the minimum legal age for a child to be left at home alone?

How do I locate a home daycare?

How do I help improve my childīs listening skills?

How can I be sure my child is safe in case of fire?

Are there any dangerous conditions I should look for?

Should I find out if the foods served meet USDA guidelines?

How can I make inexpensive toys using recycled materials?

How do I talk to my sonīs teacher?

How should I refer to our provider?

What is home daycare?

How can I help strengthen family bonds?

How do I find the right daycare for my disabled child?

What should I look for in discipline maintenance?

How can I help build self-esteem in my child?

How can I get my company involved in childcare?

how can I show our deep appreciation for our providerīs work?

Would my child do better later if he went to an academic preschool?

Who should I discuss my childīs medications with?

What size should my childīs class be?

How do I get more involved with my childīs care?

How do I help my child realize that I am coming back for him?

How do I gain support for parents of children in daycare?

How can I help my child have good self-esteem?

How do I get help with potty training?

What should i know about nap times?

What about giving treats for rewards?

How can I improve the already good quality of care at my centre?

How can I get the government to increase childcare spending?

How do I deal with my child comparing me to his caregiver?

What can I do to raise national awareness of childcare issues?

How do I open comunication with my childīs care provider?

What should I look for in a teacherīs behaviour?

I work a lot, how can I volunteer my time?

I work all the time, how can I find time to volunteer at the center?

What should I do first for burns and scalds?

Are there any foods I should avoid giving to my toddler?

How can I make meal time easier for my toddler?

What should I do in case a child is bitten by a dog?

Should I serve fresh or frozen vegetables to the children?

What can I serve as a simple snack for kids?

What sort of gifts should I give to my childīs providers?

DO ALL DAYCARES MAKE YOU PAY FOR A DAY YOUR CHILD MAY HAVE NOT COME IN

My baby/toddler only attached to one teacher, what do I do?

How can I prevent my child getting sunburned?





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Barbara Gibson