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For Parents
Choosing appropriate child care for your infant or young child can seem overwhelming. As a parent, it is your responsibility to ensure that your child is safe and happy in a child care environment that is fun, educational, and nurturing. Read on to learn how to go about making such an important decision.
Most important in determining the type of care your child needs is to know your own child - his temperament, likes and dislikes, health, interests, and behavior. For an infant under 1 year of age, you need to give careful attention to your child's need to be nurtured and held, any special health needs, and the type of person you want to care for your child during the first year of his life. For an older child, his developing play and learning styles, interaction with other children, intellectual curiosity, and need for individualized attention should be considered. The family's own values and emotional needs should also help to determine the kind of care they choose for their child.
Choosing child care depends on the family's comfort level and their type of child. Some parents are overly anxious about leaving their very young child with one person, while others prefer individual care. But by age 3 or 4, it's good for the child to have at least some exposure to other kids and participate in a structured program like preschool or daycare.
Before choosing a care setting, you should be aware of the options available and consider cost, location, and reputation. The first step you should take is to make a list of qualities you're looking for in a caregiver or day care, such as experience, religious background, discipline beliefs, and flexibility. Also consider any religious or cultural beliefs that you wish a caregiver to impart to your child.
Resource & Referral is able to make referrals, we do not make recommendations. It is the responsibility of the parent to ensure the facility is appropriate for your child and family. See "KNOW YOUR RIGHTS" for important information.