57% of working American families spend more than $10,000 on daycare per year, which is a good chunk of money. Not only that, but you’re entrusting these people to look after your little ones, which can be anxiety-inducing.
However, some household situations make child care necessary, so you may not have a choice but to find a local one for your kids. In that case, you need to find the cream of the crop, so you can have peace of mind.
Read on for three things you should expect from a quality child care center.
1. A Safe Environment
Your children will spend lots of time at the facility, so it needs to be safe and clean. While you can usually view pictures online, it’s not a bad idea to schedule a tour. Not only can you see things in person, but you can also talk to staff and see how they handle your questions and concerns.
If you’re worried about your little ones getting ill, then ask the center how often they clean their toys and surfaces, and with which products.
2. Kind and Compassionate Staff
Child separation anxiety disorder (CSAD) is seen in 1-4% of children. Even those who aren’t affected can feel apprehensive about day care, so it’s vital that the staff go above and beyond to make the kids feel comfortable and safe. You want your little ones to look forward to dropoffs, not be scared of them.
If you’re sending your baby to an infant day care center, then this is even more important. You want people who can handle the challenges that come with caring for babies in a calm and gentle manner.
They should also have open communication and transparency. You should never feel like you’re intruding by asking for updates on your children.
3. An Excellent Curriculum
Child care centers don’t just supervise your children. They also provide valuable lessons to encourage kids to learn.
You need to find a day care center that uses teaching methods that are proven to work. They should have plenty of toys, as well as games, computers, books, musical instruments, etc., things that encourage children to explore their world.
Certifications like NAEYC accreditation are something to look for. This indicates that the center is dedicated to helping your kids flourish.
Choose a Fantastic Child Care Center
Now that you know what to expect from a child care center, you’ll be able to discern the good from the bad.
Touring the center you’re interested in is always a great idea, as you’ll get a better feel for things. And remember to go with your gut feelings; if something doesn’t feel right, then it’s probably not the best child day care for your little ones. Take time with the process and it’s bound to pay off with quality results.
For a center that takes child care seriously, get in touch with Rising Star Academy today. We’ll meet all your expectations and more.