??? Daycare Questions ???

[ ] Do they have group games?
[ ] Do you see puppets and dolls?
[ ] Do you see the classroom divided into centers?
[ ] Do they encourage talking, and singing?
[ ] Do they teach the same values as your family?
[ ] Do they go outside everyday (weather permitting)?
[ ] Did the children present seem relaxed and having a good time?

Closing the Visit
[ ] Were there the right amount of children per educator?
home daycare:
1 adult for 6 children
in daycare:
1 adult for 4 babies
1 adult for 8 toddlers
1 adult for 10 children (4-5)
* these are averages check with your state/provincial laws.

[ ] When you asked, did they provide you with three references?
[ ] Did you feel comfortable asking questions?
[ ] Did the Director offer more information?

Other questions you might want to know: What's the policy for vacations and holidays?
What is the policy for sick children?
Can they give medication to your child?
What there policy on colds, fevers and chicken pox?
What's the nap situation?
What happens to the child who doesn't want to nap?

Try to take a few minutes to get to know the educator that would be with your child. How long has she been in this field? What's her favorite activity with the children? How does she teach responsibilities, problem solving and fighting?

What if your child doesn't want to participate in a certain activity is his decision respected?

Make the reference calls check before the next visit.
[ ] #1 name and number
[ ] #2 name and number
[ ] #3 name and number
[ ] Have called the state office and/or Better Business Bureau to see if this daycare is actually registered and involved in any infractions or frauds.

Step 3 Second Visit (with child)
How did your child react?
Did your child seem to enjoy himself/herself?
Does your child know some children in the center?

Your feelings and your child's feeling were positive - great go visit another center. Hopefully you'll have the opportunity to visit more than one center and have time to analyze them. Unfortunately you won't find the perfect daycare but hopefully you'll find the one that will match your desires and needs.

If something doesn't "feel" right, listen to your instincts. Listen to your gut feeling and don't trust your child to that center.

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