How to Choose …
Choosing the best childcare can seem overwhelming if not daunting. Finding the perfect balance of quality and affordability can be a huge decision, especially when you consider that it can have a life changing impact on your family.
Here is the best advice for tackling one of the most important tasks a parent can have:
Do Your Research
What are other parents saying about the caregivers and the facility? Are there testimonials or on-line reviews? Do you know other parents who can give you a good reference for the center? The bottom line is that the reputation of a facility and its staff are important. If other parents aren’t raving about the care their child is receiving, you need to dig deeper to find out if there are specific issues.
Licensed Facility with Quality Staff
A childcare center should be able to provide you with a current license and State accreditation. Choosing a State Licensed Facility means that you are guaranteed the following when the facility is approved for a license:
- Electronic Fingerprint Clearance through L1 Identity Solutions Licensing Record Clearance
- Medical Clearance Request (for the applicant and each assistant caregiver)
- Documentation of
Tuberculosis (TB) test results for all persons in the home who are 14 years ofage or older. Assistant caregivers must also have documentation of TBtest results . - Documentation of valid infant/child/adult CPR (
cardiopulmonary resuscitation ), First Aid and Blood-Borne Pathogen Training forthe applicant and any assistant caregivers. - Proof of inspection and approval of your heating system for Family and Group Child Care Homes (including wood-burning stoves and any
other permanently installed heating devices) and fuel-fired waterheater within the past 12 months (from certain specified contractorsor inspectors ). - Documentation that the level of Radon gases does not exceed a specified limit. (See www.michigan.gov/deqradon).
Education & Socialization
The facility should offer an age-appropriate well-organized program to prepare your child for the next level of education, whether it is pre-K, Kindergarten, or beyond. View the website and/or ask questions about the facility’s lessons and planned activities. All activities should teach children when it is appropriate to socialize with others and how to interact with adults and other children. There should be a healthy balance of learning time, playtime and self-time.
Take a Tour
Schedule a visit at the facility. This is the best way to find out if the center measures up to your standards of cleanliness as well as having a stimulating environment.
Staff: While visiting, pay close attention to how the staff interacts with the children. Are they engaged and show enthusiasm, while encouraging children to show the same level of involvement? When a child needs extra attention, is the staff patient, warm and responsive?
Children: Is there a routine that will allow your child to feel comfortable, knowing what to expect each day? Are the books and toys in good condition and are they age-appropriate? Do the other children seem engaged and responsive? And if not, are they receiving the appropriate amount of attention? Be sure to ask what a typical day looks like for a child who is your child’s age.
Cleanliness: Ask about sanitation rules and look for signs that encourage cleanliness.
Safety: Are the smoke detectors visible? Do the doors stay locked to prevent children from opening them? Are adult visitors closely monitored?
Policies & Provisions
Understanding a Child Care Organization’s policies can also help you to understand their philosophies. For instance, how do they discipline children when needed (do they use time-out, scolding or re-direction)? Is there a plan in place for sick children? Are meals provided, and if so, are allowances made for allergies and sensitivities? When and how long are naptimes? How are days off handled for extreme weather, vacations and sick days? How are parents expected or encouraged to be involved?
Communication
Each facility should have an information system to keep parents up to date on new policies or guidelines affecting your family. Additionally, you should have access to immediate communications to address any concerns or anxieties affecting you or your child. A good child care facility will have a combination of ways to keep you informed, educate you on issues and allow you to discuss important subjects.