Many parents find it difficult to choose the right childcare centre since they almost always notice flaws in each facility. However, if you’re a parent, take note that the perfect kindergarten doesn’t exist. What you can do, though, is to look for a daycare centre that has the same values and beliefs as you and knows how to provide the best possible care and support to children. You can jump-start your search by asking potential providers the following questions:
Can you walk me through your policies and procedures?
Different facilities approach childcare in different ways. So, when searching for a daycare centre, remember to ask about their policies. How do they provide discipline when a child misbehaves? Are you allowed to visit your child any time of the day? What steps would they take if one of the kids becomes sick? Their answers will give you an idea of how reliable and professional they are and help you determine if they can be trusted with your child’s needs.
Ask also about how the centre handles emergencies and security issues. Ideally, they should have well-thought-out procedures to ensure the safety and security of the children under their care no matter what happens.
What programmes do you offer?
Reputable daycare facilities have many programmes in place so they can cater to children’s learning needs and help them sharpen their skills and make new discoveries. Aside from offering programmes that are designed for babies and preschoolers, your childcare facility should also provide programmes for literacy, numeracy, science and technology, physical activity, and performance arts, among others.
How do you choose your staff?
Your daycare centres should employ licenced and experienced educators who know how to provide the care and support that children need. This way, there will be reliable and knowledgeable experts who will guide your little ones and help them stay safe and comfortable while learning new skills.
Will I need to send food with my child?
Most daycare centres will provide food and drinks, but you’ll still want to confirm that they do by asking this question. If food will be served on-site, find out who prepares the meals and how they put them together. Remember to ask how they prepare and serve food for children with special dietary needs. Ideally, they should be familiar with various food sensitivities and allergies and take special precautions to prevent cross-contamination.
Can I schedule a visit?
Before making the final decision, organise a visit so you can explore a daycare centre and see what they offer with your own eyes. Observe how the educators interact with the children and see if the kids look healthy and happy. Of course, check how clean and safe the environment is. If it’s dirty and unkempt and there are lots of child safety hazards throughout the area, you’ll need to look for a different facility.
Looking for the ideal childcare centre is far from easy. However, by asking the right questions, you’ll eventually find a day care centre in Granville that can provide the support and guidance that your little one needs as they develop new friendships and make new learnings and discoveries.