Childcare - What To Look For!

Monday, March 19, 2007

Posted by Meeta K. Wolff

After weighing the different childcare options we as parents have for our children the next step is often considering all the issues involved before making the final choice.

Whether visiting a nursery/Kindergarten, interviewing a nanny or having a meeting with the childminder there are certain specific things that we should look out for.

Nursery/Kindergarten

  • A quiet place/room where the children can have naps or relax.
  • A set and clear daily routine for the children.
  • Children's artwork displayed on the walls.
  • Food and drink. Do children get a well balanced lunch? What are they offered to snack on. Are the drinks offered sugar free and healthy? Have a look at their weekly menu plan.
  • A variety of toys that are clean and help the child develop.
  • An appealing, safe and large outdoor garden or play area.
  • Carers who enjoy being with children and their work. Do they listen and take notice to the children? Do they answer their questions?
  • Children interacting with each other well.
  • Proper feedback from the carers. We need to know what our children do all day.

Nanny

  • Qualifications and experience.
  • References from previous employers. Get written references from the previous employers and even talk to them if possible.
  • Attitude. The nanny should have a cheerful and positive way about her and show real interest in the child's development.
  • The nanny should have a clear idea about how she plans to take care of the child. Give her input for planning a daily routine, food and discipline.


Childminder

  • Registration certification and references from other parents.
  • A clean and attractive home where the children feel comfortable. There should be a park or a garden available where the children can get out during the day.
  • Flexibility. Every child is different and has different needs. How does the childminder manage and approach the children?
  • Routine. Is there a defined routine for the children to follow?
  • Does anyone else live in the house and will they have any kind of interactivity with the child?
  • Does anyone smoke in the house?
  • Are there any pets in the house? (in case the child has allergies etc.)


With these basic thoughts and issues you can easily plan out a checklist and a few questions you would like to ask before you meet with the relevant child-carer.

Resources:
Daycare and Your Kids: What You Need to Know
What questions to ask when choosing a daycare?
Questions to ask yourself

Are you interested in contributing to The Daily Tiffin? Drop us an email: blogmeeta@gmail.com. We look forward to hearing your ideas.






This Post was written by Meeta from What's For Lunch, Honey?


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