Choosing The Best Daycare Center For Your Child

by Prescolaire Early Learning Academy | October 28, 2022

With so many daycare center options available, it can be difficult to choose the best one for your child. However, by taking some time to research your options and ask the right questions, you can be confident that you are making the best decision for your family. Here are some tips on how to choose the best daycare center for your child. 

Make a list of your priorities

What is most important to you in a daycare center? Do you want a place that is close to your home or workplace? Do you want a center that has a lot of outdoor space? Do you want your child to be in a smaller group or class size? Once you know what is most important to you, you can start narrowing down your choices. 

Location and Hours of Operation

The first thing you will want to consider when choosing a daycare is its location and hours of operation. If you need childcare during work hours, you will want to make sure that the daycare center is open during those times. You will also want to consider how close the daycare is to your home or workplace. If you need to drive a long distance to drop off and pick up your child, it may not be the most convenient option for your family. 

Research different types of daycare centers

There are many different types of daycare centers, from in-home daycares to large commercial ones. Before you start visiting different daycare centers, do some research on the different types to see which one would be the best fit for your family. 

Daycare Center Staff Qualifications and Training 

When touring a potential daycare, be sure to ask about the staff's qualifications and training. All staff members should have current CPR and First Aid certification. They should also have experience working with children in a professional setting. It's also important to inquire about staff turnover rates. A high turnover rate can indicate that there are problems with the working environment at the daycare center. 

Daycare Center’s Program Curriculum 

Be sure to ask about the curriculum at the potential daycare centers you are considering. Many states have specific requirements that must be met in order for a daycare center to be licensed, so all centers should be able to provide you with information on their curriculum. In addition, many centers use nationally recognized programs such as Creative Curriculum or HighScope Curriculum. Prescolaire Early Learning Academy uses the STEAM learning curriculum which focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. These programs provide age-appropriate activities that help children learn and grow in all areas of development. 

Health and Safety Procedures 

Finally, you will want to make sure that the daycare center has implemented proper health and safety procedures. The center should have a written policy on health and safety procedures that is available for parents to review. In addition, the center should conduct regular fire drills and have a plan in place in case of an emergency evacuation. All staff members should be familiar with these procedures so that they can keep children safe in case of an emergency situation.  

Schedule visits to the daycare centers on your list 

Once you have a list of potential daycare centers, schedule visits so that you can tour the facilities and meet the staff. This is also a good time to ask any questions that you may have about the center. Feel free to connect with one of Prescolaire’s Admissions Counselors to schedule a tour today.

Ask other parents for recommendations 

Tap into your personal network and see if anyone you know has any good recommendations. These referrals can be invaluable in helping you make your decision.

Consider your budget

Depending on your financial situation, you may need to consider cheaper options or look into government subsidies. Don’t forget to factor in things like transportation costs as well.

Trust your gut

After touring several different facilities and meeting with various staff members, you should have a good feeling about which center is the best fit for your family. Trust your instincts and choose the place that feels right for you and your child. 
Choosing a daycare center for your child is a big decision, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. By taking some time to do your research upfront, you can feel confident that you are making the best decision for your family.

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