-
Step 1
Check the day care's licensing. Even though it's in a home, licensing is still required. In many states, requirements are less strict in a home day care, but they're still there. You want to make sure you choose an in home day care that is licensed by the state.
-
Step 2
Ask about sick leave and vacation policies. Make sure you understand what's expected of you if the day care worker gets sick or decides to take vacation. Many times in a home day care setting, there's not a backup worker to fill in during these situations.
-
Step 3
Quiz other parents who use that day care. Ask about any problems they've seen and how the day care worker handled them. When you understand why other parents feel comfortable leaving their children there, it might help put your mind at ease.
-
Step 4
Inspect the inside and the outside of the home. Your child will likely run and play in the yard during warm weather. Make sure the yard is safe for your child and free of dangerous animals. You should also pay attention to any potential hazards in the home and ask the day care worker about those concerns.
-
Step 5
Search the Internet and ask your friends what they've heard. No matter how big or small the town is, news travels fast. Ask your friends if they know the day care worker and see if she has a good reputation. You can also do an Internet search and see if anything questionable shows up.
-
Step 6
Pop in unannounced. Any day care should be willing to open its doors to a potential parent, even a home day care. If you like what you see when you take your surprise tour of the facility, you'll feel more comfortable leaving your child in their care.
-
Step 7
Trust your instincts. First impressions are priceless, especially when it comes to the care of your children. Rely on your gut instinct to tell you if a day care is right for your family.
