Questions to Ask When
Choosing a Child Care Provider
1. Can you or your spouse afford to stay home with your child?
Make sure you consider what you would both be happiest doing.
2. Do you have relatives who can help? Since relatives are
familiar and trusted faces, many parents prefer relative care,
especially for infants.
3. How much can you afford to pay? Nannies usually cost the
most. In-home care usually costs the least.
4. How flexible is your schedule? Child care centers and
preschools usually have set drop-off and pick-up times.
5. Does your workplace offer a child care center, allow you to
bring your baby to work with you, or let you work at home?
These benefits allow you to work and still be near your child.
6. Would your child benefit the most from group play or
individualized attention? During the first year, individualized
attention is often best. After that, look for an environment that
provides a mix.
7. Does your child have health issues or needs that require
special attention? Discuss this with your child's pediatrician to
review your child's needs and what child care environment will
best be able to address them.
8. Do you prefer structured play and activities for your child or
are you comfortable with a free-form environment? Child care settings vary in the amount of structure provided. A balance is
often best.
Finding a compatible child care situation takes time. Begin investigating about 6 months before you need it, if possible. |
