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The decision to return to work after the birth of a child can be a wrenching one, but it can be a little easier if the parents know that their child will receive excellent care. What are some of the things that parents should consider when choosing a care provider?
It may seem that a daycare in a private home will be a better option, but keep in mind that home daycares are often not subject to the strict standards and licensing requirements that commercial daycares must follow. It’s probably best to avoid home daycares unless you’re very familiar with the care provider or have access to several references. Home daycare providers are more likely to provide a cozy “just like home” environment, which may be better for babies or toddlers. Preschoolers, however, usually benefit from the structure and routines of the school-type environment of a commercial daycare. Also consider that a home daycare provider may be unable to care for your child if the provider becomes ill or has a family emergency. How hard would it be for you to find alternate care arrangements on short notice if this were to happen?
All daycare providers, whether commercial or in homes, should meet standards for safety and hygeine. The number of children for each adult present should be small, with increasing ratios according to age group. No hazardous materials or equipment should be accessible to children, and all basic childproofing steps should be taken care of such as guards on electric outlets, shorteners on window blind cords, safety gates on stairs. Diaper changing should not take place near food preparation or serving areas and the diapering area should be kept spotless. Security measures should be in place, such as locked doors and requiring identification for pickups. Procedures should be in place in case of fire or other emergency, and practiced on a regular basis. Also, care providers should know emergency care such as CPR and first aid.
Daycare staff should be willing to accommodate special needs your child might have, such as administering medication or feeding a special diet. Check the areas your child will use for naps. Babies should sleep in sturdy, safe cribs and the staff must be aware of the “back to sleep” policy for preventing SIDS. Toddlers out of cribs should have bed rails if needed or sleep on low cots. Ask what the staff will do if the child is unable to sleep. The care provider’s beliefs for discipline should be similar to your own.
Also consider how pleasant and stimulating the environment will be for your child. There should be a mixture of scheduled activities and free play. Toys should be in good repair, in a wide variety to allow for many different types of play. Activities should encourage development of both small and large motor skills, stimulate sensory experiences, and develop imagination and creativity. Meals and snacks should be healthy and varied, with options available.
When checking out the daycare, stop by at a time when the provider will be in the middle of ordinary daily routines. Keep in mind the suggestions listed here, but above all, trust your gut instinct. No matter how nice a provider or daycare center may appear, if it doesn’t feel right, keep looking. Choosing the right daycare for your child can be one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. Excellent options are available, however, and finding it will ease the burden of guilt and worry.
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