Matching a Child Care Provider with Your Daycare Needs

One of the most important decisions a parent has to make is selecting the right child care. Finding suitable care can take a while, but the effort will be well worth the time invested

Your quest will be successful if you have the right knowledge. The following tips will help you learn how to spot a quality child care program.

Visit Multiple Locations. It's tough to get a good feel for what a quality daycare is if you have no point of reference or comparison. You may be tempted to select the closest location for convenience, but it's wise to expand your search and visit several locations in your area to get a good feel for how the center operates, the staff, the facility layouts, and what you do/do not like about the provider.

Ask About the Adult-to-Child Ratio. How many adults are responsible for the number of children in the center, or for larger centers- how many adults supervise the particular age group your child will be placed in. Each state has different standards, be sure to find out what your state adult-to-child ratio standard is prior to visiting the center. Basic standards are:

- 1 adult per 4 infants

- 1 adult per six children (no more than 2 infants)

If the center you visit does not adhere to at least the minimum standard in your state, look elsewhere. The ratios are in place to help assure the safety and quality care of the child.

Ask for Referrals. It's helpful to ask your friends and family for advice and recommendations, but also ask the provider to provide you with a minimum of three referrals. These should be parents who currently have children attending at the center. Talking with these parents will help give you insight to the current culture and climate of the center, and may possibly alert you to some problem areas.

Make Sure the Provider is Prepared for Safety. Do you see smoke detectors and emergency evacuation plans posted? How is the space set up? If there are unprotected sharp corners, deteriorating playground equipment, or dirty bathrooms, the facility may be hazardous to your child's health.

Ask the provider about their state licensing, emergency contact system, liability insurance, and if their staff has up-to-date training in pediatric CPR and first aid.

Find out What Your Child Will Eat. Ask to see a sample menu. Find out if the center follows any nutritional guidelines. Take a tour of the kitchen. Is the food stored and prepared in a safe manner.

Also find out if you will be responsible for providing any food for your child (other than formula for infants.) Providing daily snacks can make an impact on your budget and may be a consideration when selecting between two different centers.

Trust Your Instincts. Did the provider make a good impression with you or do you have lingering doubts. Trust your instincts. If you don't feel close to 100% confident that the provider you are choosing will nurture and care for your child in a manner you are happy with, then seek out alternative sources.

Observe the caregiver's in their setting, don't just meet them at the end of the day or in an office. Watch how they respond to the children they are providing care for and how the children respond to them. You can pick up a lot of information by observing the actual interaction.

Ask Questions. Don't be intimidated or timid. Ask every question you can think of until you are satisfied that you have enough information to make a good decision. After all, this is about your child's care. You have the right and the responsibility to request information about the child care provider.

If the caregiver is not willing to discuss topics with you or is reluctant to give out information pertinent to the center and the quality of care your child will receive, this should be a huge red flag and you may want to consider other alternatives.