Day care is an excellent child-care option. Most centers will accept infants over six weeks of age. It's important to research day-care centers during your pregnancy as many have waiting lists for infants. You also don't want to make this decision at the last minute, when you're under pressure to return to work soon. You need time to visit the centers and evaluate them before making a decision.

Important Considerations

When choosing a day-care center, it's important to listen to your instincts about the facility and the people who work there. In addition, there are other practical considerations to ask about and look for when you are evaluating a center:

• Costs: Ask about weekly rates, hourly rates, and additional charges for extra hours. Some centers have registration fees and yearly supply fees as well. Ask if you are expected to supply snacks or supplies.

• Sanitary measures: Find out what their policy is. Toys and equipment should be cleaned regularly, and after a toy is mouthed it needs to be cleaned. The diaper-changing area must be cleaned after each use, and staff should wear gloves and/or wash hands each time.

• Sleeping arrangements: Ask if all infants must follow the same schedule of naps or whether babies can sleep as needed. Make sure each baby has a separate crib. If the center provides linens, they should be washed daily.

• Hours of operation: Some centers only accept full-time enrollment, so ask about part-time if that is your interest. Learn the hours they are open, as well as holiday schedules and closings due to weather. Ask about vacation and sick day policies as well.

• Safety standards: All equipment should meet safety standards and be checked for safety regularly. Safety also includes windows and doors, which can be hazardous if windows are floor-length, doors are made of glass, or mini-blinds are used. Bookcases should be bolted to the walls, electrical outlets covered, and outdoor play areas fenced. Smoke alarms, emergency plans, and compliance with fire codes are essential.

• Feeding: Learn if breastfeeding is encouraged and if mothers are welcome to come feed their babies. Milk and formula should be labeled and stored in the refrigerator. Parents should supply bottles and be responsible for washing them at home. Learn if babies are fed on a schedule or on demand.

• Staff information: Make sure all staff is trained in first aid, that they can provide references, and that their backgrounds have been checked. They should also have current immunizations. A director should be on the premises at all times.

• Age separation: Children should be grouped by age, with infants cared for in a room separate from other children.

• Sick policy: Learn what symptoms indicate your child should be kept home. Immunization requirements should meet the ones created by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Learn if there is a nurse or physician on call.

• Parent involvement: Some centers require parents to participate a certain number of hours a month. At the very least, parent involvement should be encouraged and welcomed.

• Contract: Ask to see the contract in advance, and look for liability waivers in it that say the center has no liability at all for your child.

In-Home Day-Care Centers

Many women run day-care centers out of their homes. Often they are home caring for their own children and agree to care for several other children at the same time. These centers feel more home-like. However, there are likely to be fewer resources and not as much backup available.

When evaluating a home day care, learn where in the home the children will be cared for and if it is childproofed and separate from the rest of the home. Determine how the provider will ensure equal treatment among her own children and your child. If there are other staff members, get information about their qualifications, training, and background.