SELECTING A CHILDCARE PROVIDER

Please visit the Parent's Corner about one third of the way down to find more links about selecting a childcare provider.  You will also find them listed here:

SELECTING CHILDCARE - One of your most important decisions!      

      Top Reasons To Consider In-Home Family Child Care

      Garland Home Childcare Association - Why Home Childcare?

      Top Ten Considerations When Evaluating Your Child's Care 

       How to Select A Day Care Provider

       Search For Child Care Based on Location - The Child Care Source

Several things will vary from one provider to another, so visit several to find one that suits your family.

• Provider’s personality
• Discipline and guidance
• Arrangement of home and yard
• Ages of children in care
• Days and hours of operation
• Daily schedule
• Meal times and types of foods
• Supplies provided
• Fees for various activities or supplies
• Pets or no pets

What Should I Look for When Choosing a Child Care Provider?

Looking for the best care for your child can be a challenge.  Finding the right environment is one of the most important decisions you will ever make.  We understand.  That is why we have created this Child Care Decision Guide.  Use it to assist you with your search.  Take this guide with you when you visit child care centers, or registered in-home providers so that you can easily compare and make the best decision for yourself and your child.

Where La La's Kindergarten Preparatory Preschool & Family Home Child Care Goes Beyond

We understand that you want to be certain you have the best choice for your child.  At La La's Kindergarten Preparatory Preschool & Family Home Child Care, we create a joyful, warm, and safe environment for your child.  Below are some questions to ask yourself about your overall experiences when you visited other providers.

• Did you feel comfortable with the person who will take care of your child?
• Did you feel that your needs were understood and respected?
• Did you feel like the provider listened to you and answered you questions effectively?
• Did you feel that the provider would partner with you in developing your child's potential?
•  Did the provider convey warmth and a sincere interest in you and your child?
• Did you feel that you could speak openly and honestly about questions or concerns with the home child care provider/Director?

Things to look for when you visit any in-home child care provider's home

•  The provider(s) you meet in the home listen and care.

• The caregiver-to-child ratio allows your child to receive plenty of individual attention.

• The provider(s) have a passion for what they do, and they receive comprehensive professional development training, through national, local and state child care associations.

• The home offers a research-based program that fosters confidence, self-esteem, and a love of learning.

• The outside play area and inside environments are safe, and the entrance and the home are clean and secure.

• You receive daily communication, both verbal and written, about your child's activities.

• You are encouraged to drop in at any time to see your child.

• The provider(s) meet with you on a regular basis to share your child's progress. 

•  When you ask for references from other parents, they are readily provided with positive feedback.

• The provider(s) offer flexible scheduling to meet you r family's needs.

• Provider is state registered and has a good inspection record

•   Facility is safe, clean, and clutter free

• Strict illness and exclusion policy

• Limited television time

•   Provider responds promptly to the children's needs

•  Provider tailors her care individually based on the children's temperaments and needs

•  Provider models appropriate behavior by communicating in a respectful and polite manner

• Provider offers a variety of toys and activities that will stimulate the children

•   Provider enjoys being with and around children

• Provider establishes and enforces reasonable limits in an acceptable and consistent manner

Here are some warning signs to look for:

• Being a parent who has used day care before, there is always the fear of child abuse and neglect. When you schedule an interview with the caregiver in her home you will usually be able to “sense” if it is a safe environment for your child. If you have a bad feeling about any facility, home or center, trust your intuition and look elsewhere.
• Child develops diaper rash frequently while in care not related to teething, change of diet, or diarrhea.
• Child is hesitant or fearful to talk about his or her day.
• Children will inevitably get bumps and bruises during normal play, but if children receive multiple or poorly explained injuries, this should be a red flag. The care provider should point out any less serious injuries that may require first-aid treatment.
• If you suspect child abuse or neglect call the Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-252-5400.

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