How to Choose a Childcare Center For Your Child

All parents who use daycare wonder at one time or another whether the childcare center they've chosen is a good one or not. Whether you're shopping for quality childcare or analyzing your current choice, there are a few things to consider in choosing quality childcare centers.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. WHAT IS THE SECURITY LIKE?
   
   Make sure that a reliable security system is in place. You want to be able to stop in at any time, but just anyone shouldn't be able to pick up your child. Quality centers have a system and you will be informed of the rules. Make sure the rules are adhered to on a daily basis.

2. CHECK OUT THE MENU.
   
   Is the menu accessible for parents, and is the food served healthy? Does your child like the meals served? Make sure the daycare provider doesn't serve Happy Meals everyday or pizza. This actually does happen, believe it or not. Also, make sure that healthy snacks are provided at regular intervals. Find out what the policy is for children who are hungry and ask for food between meals.

3. WHAT IS THE EMPLOYEE TURNOVER RATE?
   
   A good childcare center has a low employee turnover. Your child needs to know the people who take care of him. It's not good for a child to constantly have to get used to a new caregiver. Happy employees are also more likely to treat your child well, so be sure to do some research in this area.

4. IS YOUR CHILD HAPPY?
   
   All kids cry occasionally, but if your child visibly hates the center, you have to wonder why. Does he come home with pinch marks or bites? Ask questions and get to the root of the problem. If your child isn't happy, you may need to look for a new center.

5. ARE VIDEO CAMS PRESENT?
   
   Nanny cams are very commonplace in centers across America. They help parents feel more comfortable since they can go online and check on their child at any time. I think they are a must. Make sure any childcare providers you are considering have nanny cams available.

6. WHAT IS THE CHILD/WORKER RATIO?
   
   Depending on your child's age and the state you live in, there are legal limits regarding the child/worker ratio. Toddlers have a very low ratio, and more children can be in the care of one worker at older ages. Check on the laws of your state.

Tips & Warnings

• Trust your gut feelings. If you don't feel right leaving your child somewhere, don't.

[CCrock]

on 10/7/2008 Great article! I'm passing this on to my brother who is actually about to start looking for a daycare.