Here’s a list of what your family should review every few months regarding your childcare needs. While many kids have bouts of separation anxiety or days where they simply don’t want to go to daycare, parents should assess whether their tot is comfortable at child care (at least most of the time). Does your youngster have friends, look forward to special events or days, and seem to have a bond with the care provider? Do they engage socially and seem to thrive in their care setting? If not, it might be time to re-evaluate and seek a different childcare setting. If you get the sense that your caregiver would rather be doing something else, it may be time to find a replacement. Don’t forget to ask about drop-off and departure safety protocols and be sure you’re comfortable with the answers given. Some argue that attending to basic needs, providing lots of safe and fun free play, and encouraging social interaction is sufficient. Others, however, believe that a focus on early reading and math as well as introducing academic concepts and even foreign language is essential for success later. Determine what your goals and expectations are for your child at their current stage, then be sure they are being met to your satisfaction. Do you want a daily report of activities and to know your child’s eating/sleeping habits in detail? Some parents do; others consider it unnecessary. Do you like a provider who sets weekly themes and creates special days (like wearing red on Thursday), or do these types of activities drive you crazy? Does your provider request regular conferences? Remember: this is a partnership, so it needs to work for everyone. You want to feel confident in your provider’s abilities and personality. Spend time with your babysitter chatting about interests, career plans, etc., to make sure your “parent radar” bodes well. Examples include sleep position and crib safety to prevent sudden infant death syndrome and flu immunization for care providers who work with infants. This information is typically available online for easy review so that parents can understand standards and expectations. If you choose to use someone who is not licensed (such as a part-time babysitter), at least make sure that the caregiver has basic first-aid/CPR training. While another teacher can be brought in easily at a daycare, in-home providers can also arrange for a backup caregiver for times when they are sick or unable to work. Parents should also make plans for when their own tot is sick and can’t attend daycare.
