How To Choose A Safe Day Care Center

A mom in Rhode Island wants answers. Her baby was left alone unattended at day care for 45 minutes. The day care says it was a mere misunderstanding. What can you do to make sure this situation doesn’t happen to you and that your baby is in a safe day care environment? Here are some things to look for before entrusting your tiny tot into someone else’s care:


1. Cover the Basics
What is the traffic like on the way to the day care? Is it in a convenient location? Are they closed on certain holidays? What are their hours of operation? What is the cost? Is there part time or flexible care options? Figure these basic things out first, and you’ve already covered whether the particular day care is even an option that could meet your needs.


2. Get Recommendations
Go on the Internet to do your homework, and certainly ask trusted friends and family members for suggestions. You’ll never know about the good and bad experiences of a particular facility until you do your research!


3. What is the Turnover Rate?
Be sure to ask this vital question – many parents don’t. A high turnover rate may indicate unsatisfied customers.


4. Get the Details
Find out the adult to child ratio. Make sure there are enough adults to supervise the children. Also, make sure to ask whether background checks are performed on all caregivers as you obviously want your baby in the hands of responsible adults. In particular, find out whether the checks are on a state level, or national level, and find out how often these checks are performed.


How are the children organized? Find out detailed information including activities that your child will be doing at the day care while you’re gone. Most providers should be happy to provide details about planned activities, themes, or even an hour by hour schedule. It doesn’t hurt to ask if you can sit in and observe the interaction between the adults and the children.


Most importantly, make sure your day care provider is certified or accredited. You want to find a provider with behavioral management training, as well as someone certified in first aid and CPR.


5. Trust Your Gut
If your gut says no, the day care facility probably isn’t the right place for you or your child. You should always feel comfortable and at ease with who you leave your baby with.


[Image Via: Team Sugar]