Choosing the right daycare for your child is a big decision. Several different things need to be considered. As a parent, you want your children to be in the best place possible. You need to feel confident that they are receiving top of the line care when they’re not with you. A safe, clean, and loving environment is the minimum standard for most parents. It’s also important to know that children are learning as much as possible. This process can be stressful, but it’s always a good idea to do your research! Here are three things to look for when choosing the best daycare for your child.
1. Cleanliness
Daycares tend to get a bad rep when it comes to cleanliness. “Clean” is probably not the first word that comes to mind when you think about a building full of toddlers. Most parents envision sick kids and unsanitized surfaces. While this may be the case for many childcare facilities, it’s not true for all of them.
Well-run, clean daycares put intentionality behind making them that way. They have methods in place to ensure that everything is sanitized thoroughly and throughout the day. They set policies that do not allow sick kids to come to school and make that clear to everyone. The entire facility should be receiving a deep clean regularly!
When scoping out daycares, you should feel free to inspect the overall cleanliness. Ask questions and take a good look for yourself. Set high standards and remember that the cleanliness of your future daycare is important for your child’s health.
2. Safety
Leaving your child in someone else’s care can be terrifying. Knowing your child is safe is what gives you peace of mind. When looking for a daycare, safety must be a top priority. There is a bare minimum of rules that daycares must follow to operate. However, a good daycare will always go above and beyond those requirements. All precautions must be taken to ensure the safety of your child.
When visiting potential daycares, ask to see a copy of the safety rules and procedures. Check for things around the facility that could be a red flag. Ask the director and teachers questions that pertain to your child’s safety. Nothing is out of bounds when it comes to protecting your little one!
3. Structure
As most parents of young children know, a routine is essential to your child having a good day! That’s why it’s so important to find a daycare that believes in structure. You have worked hard to get your child used to a routine where they can meet daily expectations. A successful daycare understands this and implements it in their facility.
Having a set schedule makes a child feel secure. They must always know what to expect and when to expect it. It allows them to have a strong sense of understanding. With structure, a natural balance is created in their life. This significantly helps to avoid any meltdowns or tantrums. A set routine allows your child to be as successful as possible!
It’s important to observe the daily routine when visiting daycares. Feel empowered to sit in on part of the day and watch how and when things are being done. Be intentional about asking questions in regard to structure. Knowing your child is following a solid routine will give provide comfort both for you as well as your child.
Take Time to Find the Right Daycare
Searching for a daycare can be a long process, but it doesn’t have to be difficult! It’s all about knowing what to look for and asking the right questions. As a parent, you are empowered to inform yourself as much as possible. Where your child spends their time should be a big deal, and it’s okay to make it that way! There’s a peace of mind in knowing that your little one is in a clean, safe, and structured environment.
At Connection Point Early Learning Center, it is always our goal to meet these standards. Schedule a visit and see for yourself!