Parenting Tips: How To Choose a Childcare Center

Caring for your kids is something that you should do at your best as a parent. However, when you are unable to do that because of work and other things, choosing the right childcare centers for your kids are the next best thing.

Parenting.com said there are reports about kids getting injured, or even dying, from childcare centers in the U.S. annually. Hence, choosing safe and responsible childcare providers have to be done well.

To help you choose the right one for your child's needs and your own peace of mind and comfort, here are some tips to help you make that choice.

Physical Structure

Dr. Sharman Johnston, director of curriculum and instruction at Children's Lighthouse Learning Centers, told Parenting that parents should at least ask themselves some questions, which include the physical conditions of the childcare center they are looking at. The questions include:

How does the center look from outside?
 Do things appear clean inside the building?
Is it generally in good repair?
Is it safe?
Are there hand washing stations readily accessible to children?

The physical condition of the childcare center will reflect in part how the childcare providers will take care of your child. Checking for any issues with physical conditions will help you decide well.

"Of course, any childcare facility is going to be gently used, with play dough on the floor. But if the bathroom smells bad, this can be a red flag," Dr. Johnston says.

Childcare Quality

Parents.com advised paying attention to how the staff interact with the kids currently in childcare. Ideally, staff should be on the floor with the kids, or at least holding one personally. Babies, in their early years, need close, loving interactions with adults. Do the staff give this kind of care?

HealthyChildren.org added checking the staff qualifications and training will be of help as well. Nationally recognized childcare standards should be followed, such as staff-to-child ratios (for example, three kids aged 12 months and below should have one caregiver, etc.).

Discipline is also important. Does the center have discipline policies?

Dr. Johnston added checking the staff, as well as the kids that they take care of. Are the kids laughing? Also, are the staff trained for emergencies?

Communication

Communication between parents and the childcare centers should be open and ongoing.

"The more open the communication channels, the better, as no center should have anything to hide," Dr. Johnston said.

Trust Your Gut

Think if you would feel comfortable leaving your child in that place. Parents should know and feel what's best for their kids.

Are there any tips you'd want to share? Add them in the comments below.