Checklist for Choosing Child Care
Whether you've decided to use a day care facility, a family day care program, or an in-home sitter, here is a list of points to consider:
While a licensed facility or home-care business does not guarantee quality, it does mean that the center or home has met minimum standards. If possible, go with a licensed facility or individual.
Personally check references for the day care center or home day care provider — and also check how the day care center checks the background and references of its employees.
Ask about the turnover rate, both of employees and of families. How many of the same families continue to use the facility or home day care provider from year-to-year?
Ask whether parents can visit the center or home without prior notice.
If unscheduled visits are not allowed, choose another facility.
Check the staff-to-child ratio. For children under two, there should be a maximum of six children in the room and one adult for every three children.
Discuss childproofing and safety issues, and visually inspect the rooms in which your child will be. Are they as safe as if your child were in your own home?
Ask about the center or day care provider's policies on immunizations, infection control, and exclusion criteria for sick children. Will the center notify you if another child becomes ill with a contagious disease?
Look at the toys to see if they are age appropriate.
Discuss the center or day care provider's policies on meals (who provides what and what is the menu); diapers (who provides and how many); and support for breastfeeding mothers.
Ask about napping arrangements (where and how often), as well as what will be done if your baby doesn't want to take a nap that day or time.
Ask if the staff/sitter is certified in infant CPR, trained in basic first-aid, and has in place a plan for emergencies.
Discuss how you will get feedback on your child each day? Is it formal or just a quick discussion at the end of the day (which may be difficult since you and your baby may both be tired)?
