How to Change Daycare Providers

Change daycare providers if you are unhappy with your current provider.

Daycare is essential if you are a working parent, but it can be a real challenge to find the daycare that's right for your child. You need to find a daycare close to your home or work that will nurture your child. Occasionally, you may need to change daycare providers because you are not happy with the service of your current provider. The process is fairly straightforward, although you do need to watch out for hurt feelings.

Instructions

1. Find a new daycare provider. Research the daycares in your area that accept new children. Visit each center to get a feel for the place. Consider the daycare's sickness policy, discipline policy and student-teacher ratio. Ask how often the daycare has problems with children hitting or biting and whether teachers are instructed to warn parents about potential problems. Choose the daycare that seems the best for you.

2. Submit all required forms to the new daycare. You will probably have to submit an application form and medical forms showing that your child has her immunizations and isn't a risk to other children. The new daycare will tell you what it needs from you.

3. Tell your current daycare provider the date that you will cease using her services. Follow the procedures set forth by the current provider. For example, you may need to give your notice in writing and your provider may require two weeks notice. You may have signed a contract with the daycare, guaranteeing that your child will stay there a certain time period. If you break the contract, you may be responsible for additional fees.

4. Assure your child that he will be safe at the new daycare. Some children do not handle change well and your child may be nervous about being around new children and new caretakers.

5. Stay with your child a few extra minutes on her first day at the new childcare center. This will help her feel more comfortable as she gets acclimated to the new daycare.

Tips & Warnings

• Watch for an adverse reaction from your current daycare provider. She should provide the same level of care that she provided before she knew that you were going to switch, but some may take offense at your decision to leave and take it out on your child. If this is the case, remove your child immediately.

References

• Safer Child: Daycare FAQs