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As workplaces become more family friendly, many parents are returning to work earlier and are therefore having to make the choice of where to send their child to get the best care. Your choice starts with your child. As parents, we know our children best. We know their strengths and weaknesses. We know what causes them anxiety and what they need to thrive. It’s important to take this into consideration when choosing a childcare facility.
Although all childcare centres must follow strict guidelines to be licenced, they can vary in terms of atmosphere, learning and development programs and structure. It’s important to find a childcare centre that suits your family, schedule and parenting style. It should be a place of learning and provide the opportunity and environment for children to learn about social skills and be part of a group with other children. It should also allow them to bond with adults other than their parents.
Childcare educators will be spending a great deal of time with your child so you must be comfortable with the way they operate in order for you to get on with your day comfortably and worry-free.
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Visit the centre
Making a visit to your potential childcare centre is the first step in determining if it is the place for you. Did you feel welcomed by the educators? Did you feel comfortable in the learning environment? Do the children seem happy and settled? Are you happy with the cleanliness of the centre? Do the staff seem engaged and are they paying attention to the children in the way you would like?
Talking to the staff will also determine how well you will be able to communicate with them and therefore be able to stay up to date with your child’s day.
You should expect a friendly, warm visit with open communication. After all, if you don’t feel comfortable during your visit, then your child is unlikely to as well.
Ask questions
- What is their philosophy?
- How does your environment include all children?
- Does your centre include government-funded kindergarten programs?
Choosing your child’s care wisely ensures both you and your child are happy and settled and enjoy a great care experience.