Tips For Finding A Daycare

Tips for New Parents on Finding A Daycare

Becoming a parent is such a huge life-changing event. Everything about becoming a parent can be overwhelming; from choosing the right pediatrician to selecting a name that they may live with forever; parenting is full of tough choices.

One of those choices may be finding the right childcare for your newborn. This can be overwhelming and stressful. Here are some things to look for when considering childcare providers.

Carefully Consider Your Options

There are many different options for childcare. Finding the one that works for your family is critically important. Here are some options available to you as a new parent seeking childcare.

In-home care. Finding an in-home childcare provider can be expensive but may be the right choice for your family. In-home options include a
full or part-time nanny or au pair, babysitters, or even a close relative or friends. If grandma and grandpa live nearby and are capable and healthy, they may be excited at the opportunity to help. If that’s not an option a well-vetted and reviewed professional may be a good option for your child. You may also consider partnering with another family or two in order to start a nanny share in one or both of your homes. This arrangement can be more cost-effective, while also providing more individualized care.

Out of-home care. Out-of-home childcare options may include a local daycare center or an individual who provides care in their home. For either option, make sure the provider has safe facilities, proper paperwork if applicable and positive references or reviews.

Creative options. It may be time
to think “outside the box” when searching for the right childcare option for your family. Explore local childcare swap or co-ops or find out what sorts of flexible scheduling options may be available through your employer. Raising a child requires your strength of Creativity, so might your childcare search.

Options for older or school-age children. Your older children may have a variety of options available for them. These might include before or after-school clubs or camps, summer camps, or volunteer opportunities. Check with your local library to see what options may be a good fit for your older children.

Other Important Considerations

There are several other things to keep in mind as you seek out the right childcare option for your family. Obviously, and most importantly, is safety. How safe is the facility or home you are leaving your child at every day? These providers should be able to provide you with safety information and protocols to help you make an informed decision. How many other children are being cared for in the same place? A daycare or in-home caregiver that has too many children under their supervision may lead to your child not getting the appropriate time, care, or attention. Does the philosophy of the facility

or caregiver align with your values and child-raising philosophy? Ask for examples of their philosophy and how that is implemented into their day-to-day routines.

Looking for your own parenting philosophy? Learn more about Natural Strength Parenting™, our unique approach to parenting.

You may also be interested in how
the caregiver communicates issues and how responsive they are to your questions. This can give you an idea of how well they may or may not communicate with you in the future. Are their cameras so you can check in on your child virtually? A safe outdoor play area? You probably have so many questions, it’s a good idea to plan ahead for your search. Write down all the questions you may have and make sure you receive satisfactory answers to them before you continue.

Finding the right childcare provider can be a stressful proposition. Planning ahead, asking the right questions, and thoroughly vetting each prospect will help ensure you make the right decision for your family.

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