When looking for how to choose the best childcare for you, look at these factors primarily. Do your research on these specific things, such as: prior mistreatment reports, cleanliness, staff to child ratios, ages of children in the facility, etc.
Call the Better Business Bureau to learn if any complaints were filed. Call the childcare facility for their license number and call State Licensing.
After doing this, then you can determine these other factors as a secondary choosing of the best childcare for you and your child. which is price, availability, location, and hours.
Some other helpful tips in choosing the best childcare for you is, before placing your child into childcare make an unannounced visit to observe the caretakers on a typical day. Observe the children in the facility. Do they appear happy? Are the adults running the facility interacting well with the children? After placing your child in the facility, continue to make unannounced visits to be sure you chose a good facility for your child.
Even go so far as to, ask to see the staff’s credentials, facility license, CPR, and Safety Certification. Ask them about all safety procedures. Ask if they have a sign in and sign out procedure and how they handle emergencies.
If you decide to place your child in a childcare facility, observe them for any sudden change in their behavior. Some separation issues might be normal but if they are excessive, you might want to check into it. Also, notice if your child has any unexplained bruises or is not acting like their normal self.
Observe the staff and the children. Remember, you cannot base all your decisions on a first impression. Sometimes, especially with younger children, irrational children will be present. Just because a child is screaming or upset, does not mean the center is automatically bad. Instead, focus on how the staff handles the problem. Are they firm but kind or harsh and unforgiving? Think of how you discipline your child and see how the staff handles problems. Making snap judgments will leave you with no suitable place to take your child.
Choosing the right childcare facility is one of the most important things you will do. Choose wisely and take it seriously. Be highly observant and know your child.
Stay Safe!