Time for childcare creates difficult decisions

This economy could very well be reinforcing the need for two working adults in a household to help make ends meet. If those adults are parents to young children, they must consider childcare options.

Many employers offer maternity leave or family medical leave for up to 12 weeks. After this, parents will have to decide how to accommodate childcare needs. Options include hiring a private nanny, asking a relative or friend for help; or looking into a childcare center.

The option many choose is the third, which may offer care from birth through kindergarten age. Because the center and its personnel is in charge of overseeing your child’s health, welfare, feeding, comfort, and perhaps education, it is important to choose a place you can trust.

Additionally, childcare is a large financial investment.

The average care costs for babies and toddlers in the United States equal $8,150 per year, per child ($679 a month), according to data from the National Association of Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies. The range is anywhere from $4,388 to $14,647 a year ($366 to $1,221 monthly). Do your research to find somewhere that fits your budget and other requirements.

According to the National Association for the Education of Young Children, children enrolled in programs that properly stimulate and nurture their mind will be more adequately prepared by the time they start school. So apart from the convenience factor of a childcare center, parents can be assured they’re also laying the building blocks for a strong scholastic career.

For those investigating childcare centers and preschools, consider these tips.

1. Start early. Some schools and centers are in very high demand, especially those with an established, solid reputation. Many have waiting lists. Look for care well in advance of the deadline to return to work so you have time to visit and consider several and won’t feel rushed to decide.

2. Calls centers in your area.

Much can be determined by how promptly and in what manner your call is answered. Ask to speak to the administrator to discuss programs and policies. Find out about setting up tours. Visit only the centers that made a strong first impression.

3. Ask for recommendations from friends and family.

Parents who have children enrolled can point you in the right direction or tell you, from their experience, where to avoid.

4. Visit your narrowed-down list without your child you can properly take in the school/center’s environment.

Consider these questions:

•Does the place smell and look clean?

•Are the rooms well-lit?

•Do the teachers or caregivers seem friendly and in control?

•Is the center licensed?

•Are the bathrooms sanitary?

•Are the ratios of children to staff agreeable?

•Do the children seem content and relaxed?

•Does the care correlate with your values?

•Is the center safe? What is done to safeguard your child?

•Are the toys cleaned regularly?

•What are the attendance policies on sick children?

You can compile a more complete list to narrow down your choices further.

5. Visit your top choices with your child, if he or she is old enough to provide input.

Witness their reaction to the surroundings and view how staff interacts with him or her. See if you can have a “test day” to see how things go. Anticipate that it may take a few weeks for your child to seem comfortable in the new surroundings and cope with separation issues.

6. Be at the center when parents drop off or pick up their children.

Ask the parents what they think of the school and any concerns. This will provide a more unbiased assessment than asking the school for a referral list.

7. Meet with the teacher or staff member who will be caring for your child.

Talk about your wants and fears and develop a relationship with them for the best childcare possible.