If you need to put your infant in daycare due to your work schedule, start assessing your options as early as possible. Even though licensing standards for area daycares tend to be consistent, group daycare programs vary by type, environment and caregiver philosophy. Home daycares generally provide care for a smaller group of children of varying ages, while childcare centers often separate children into groups based on age and standardized adult to child ratios.
Step 1
Call your area Child Care Resource and Referral Agency or Department of Human Resources to get a list of childcare homes and centers in your area. Visit the National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies to find contact information for your local agency. The National Child Care Information and Technical Assistance Center provides contact information for state licensing agencies that can help you find local providers.
Step 2
Schedule a visit with daycare homes and centers that meet your search criteria. Focus on home-based programs if you prefer a cozy atmosphere. Home daycare providers typically care for multiple ages in a small group of five to seven children. Focus on center care if you want your infant in small group care with other children his age.
Step 3
Evaluate each program based on quality childcare standards, as well as your personal preferences in terms of caregiver style and temperament. Spend at least two hours at each home or center your visit. Child Care Aware recommends that you consider the adult to child ratio, group size, caregiver qualifications and employee turnover during your evaluation. Other considerations include cleanliness, organization, safety and variety in activities and toys, according to the National Network for Child Care.
Step 4
Make a short list of programs that interest you. Ask each provider on your short list for client references. Contact references and ask questions about quality of care and overall experience, and address any specific concerns you have about the provider or the program.
Step 5
Choose a program and enroll your infant. Child Care Aware recommends that you stay involved with your child's daycare program by attending parent-caregiver meetings regularly, volunteering when needed, visiting your child occasionally and participating in special events. Partnering with your childcare provider demonstrates that you trust and respect him or her and that your child's positive daycare experience is a top priority.
