7 Daycare Essentials and What to Look For by Joy Maxwell, CEO of The Joy of Childcare

Joy Maxwell, the Founder and CEO of Joy Maxwell & Co., a program that teaches how to launch and run a childcare business, has an extensive 20-year career in the education field. She is an inspirational childcare consultant, holds a master's degree in child psychology, and former professor.

So there was no one better to dish on some of the top things to look for when considering daycare for one's children. See below for seven tips in providing the best childcare experience possible for your kids.

Perform a Policy Check

It is important to find out whether the caregivers possess the same parenting philosophies when it comes to reprimanding a child and what that looks like . What do the daily routines and events look like, check for centers which do not put too much emphasis on television and sleeping while encouraging children to play outside. 

In today's day and age, it's also important to understand what the sick-child policy is and how children with symptoms, whether COVID-19 or just the common cold, are handled. Additionally, what does this look like for the caregivers? Are there accountable and trustworthy backups available if one of them is out sick as well? Be sure to ask questions!

Read the Reviews

Keep an eye on what people are saying about the specific daycare you are considering. Does it have a solid reputation and does it seem like the reviews are from legitimate sources and parents? As you sift through the reviews, look for high stars and make note of any patterns, whether positive or negative.

Be sure to also invest some time into seeing what parents and others are saying on the daycare's social media too. This is a great source for figuring out if this is a trusted center for your kids.

Parents can also ask the caregivers for contact information and reference to parents within the network that the daycare currently services to garner what they think as well.

Do Your Homework (and Spy a Little)

It is vital that you, the parents, don't go just off of word-of-mouth recommendations and online reviews, but also scope the place out, yourselves. It needs to meet your needs, but most importantly, that of your children as well. 

Are the facilities clean, including the bathrooms? Is proper hygiene practiced across the board? Are dangerous areas childproofed? Are classrooms shelves not only sturdy but stocked with plenty of toys and books? Are the toys and books age-appropriate?

Remember, younger children, especially infants and toddlers, need plenty of floor space to develop their bodies, but also be clear of things that are hazards for choking.

Keep a close eye on how the staff interacts with the children as well and maybe stick around to gauge what the daily routines are. Don't be afraid to show up, unannounced, even more than once. After all, these are your children and you are trusting them to these people.

Is the Environment Stimulating for the Kids?

From the moment you first walk through the door of the daycare, it should feel like home. First impressions are everything! Is it clean? Do the children look happy and engaged? Is the staff kind and knowledgeable? Is the environment, itself, one that is diverse? Are there areas dedicated as age-appropriate? Are babies getting nap and tummy time(s)? Do the older children have desks for performing arts and crafts or drawing and coloring?

The children need to have their interests respected, but their preferred methods of learning should also be highlighted too. Now, imagine your child here, how does it make you feel?

How Detailed is the Curriculum?

Are the schedules for children structured and change daily? It is important to ask, but when searching for a preferred daycare, think about whether you want a carefree environment or one that is similar to school. Then find the center that will fulfill your needs.

In placing children within an experience where they are building a foundation of strong relationships at home, school, and daycare, you will be setting them up for future success.

Are the Caregivers Qualified?

All caregivers must be certified in all the basic areas of childhood development and safety. This one is non-negotiable. Staff should know CPR , criminal clearances and other necessary documents.

Are the caregivers paying attention to the children and being respectful and responsive to them? Are they communicating clearly with both the children and the parents? Do they seem like great partners in helping your children develop?

Ensure the Facility is Safe

Childproofing the daycare is another non-negotiable. The staff should be abiding by all the proper food safety procedures, cleaning of toys and surfaces, and ensuring safety across the board, including constant supervision.

Some of the major things to look for are cribs being away from blinds and windows, cleaning products out, covers on each and every outlet, high chairs should have straps, toys should be regularly cleaned and monitored for potential recalls, and making sure no toxic substances are out of place and in reach of children.

Daycare is a great learning environment for your children and, if proper measures are taken, should provide a memorable experience as they get older and progress.

About Joy Maxwell

Joy Maxwell is an inspirational childcare consultant and former professor with over 20 years of experience in the education field and dual master's degrees in Child Psychology and Multicultural Education. She founded Joy Maxwell & Co. as well as numerous childcare coaching courses dedicated to serving child care professionals and helping them achieve their dreams. Find out more on her website: https://www.joymaxwellandco.com/ or email: info@thejoyofchildcare.com