Day care providers spend a significant amount of time caring for your child. Taking time to pick a quality day care provider that meets your needs will give you a sense of comfort when you drop off your child. Quality day care providers often fill up quickly, so it's best to start your search early. This will increase your chances of getting into your first choice.
Step 1
Determine the type of day care situation you want for your child. Common options include day care centers, home day cares and nannies that come to your home.
Step 2
Drive around your area looking for day cares that are near your home, writing down names and phone numbers of places that pique your interest.
Step 3
Ask for recommendations from neighbors, friends and relatives, noting both positive and negative opinions about specific centers.
Step 4
Search the National Association for the Education of Young Children for centers that are accredited by the organization. The NAEYC requires a day care to meet specific standards for accreditation to improve the quality of care provided. NAEYC accreditation is voluntary.
Step 5
Contact your local child care resource and referral agency to find a licensed day care in your area. The National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies offers a search option to find your local agency.
Step 6
Call each center that makes your "investigate" list. Ask basic questions about cost, availability and qualifications and certifications. If there are other major priorities you have in a day care provider, such as extended hours or religious activities, ask these questions to narrow your search.
Step 7
Visit the day care providers that remain after the phone screening. Note the environment and how the providers interact with the children. Take your child along for the visit to see how he responds. Ask about attendance policies, safety and typical activities.
Step 8
Call the references provided by the day care provider to get a parent's opinion. Ask about their likes and dislikes. You also can speak to parents that you see picking up and dropping off during your visit.
Step 9
Complete the required paperwork for your chosen day care provider, particularly if there is a waiting list.
