Choosing a Daycare Provider -- The Ins and Outs
Having someone give your child his or her undivided attention can be a wonderful alternative to a large daycare center. Presumably, the extra attention will create a safe, warm, and nurturing environment.
Depending on your budget, the daycare providers available in your area may vary from a teenaged mother's helper to a full-time, one-on-one early childhood education specialist. It is your mission to find someone who meets the needs of your child, you, and your budget.
(This article looks at things you should consider when choosing a daycare provider. If you are also looking at daycare centers, click Daycare. This article covers topics related to choosing a daycare center, including important questions to ask.)
Questions to Ask Potential Daycare Providers
Before you hire anyone for the important job of caring for your child, you should make sure that you have asked all of the most important questions and covered yourself as a potential employer.
If you are researching individual daycare providers, here are a few questions to help you as you conduct your search:
- What is their experience with children in your child's age group (professional, personal, educational, etc.)?
- Can you check this person's references? If not, move on to the next person. If so, make sure they are aware that you will be calling each one.
- How will you be charged? Is there an hourly or a flat rate for the week?
- What are the days and hours they are available?
- Where will they take care of your child, in your house or theirs?
- Are there other children in their care? If so, how many and what are the ages?
- Is their house clean and safe? If they will be caring for your child in their home, make sure you get the full tour.
- What kind of activities and learning opportunities are offered?
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