You spent nine months eating right and getting everything in your house prepared for your new little one. Now it’s time to make sure where you leave your child is as safe as your home. Where should you start when looking for the proper preschool or childcare facility? We know there are so many options, but when you break it down into your top five most important considerations, it becomes much more manageable.
Parent’s Top 5 Questions to Ask When Looking for Childcare
- Teacher-to-child ratio
- Facility
- Outdoor area
- Indoor play area
- Security protocol
What is the Teacher-to-Child Ratio in the Preschool?
This question is critical. How many children will each teacher be responsible for? The right answer to the ratio question varies depending on how old your child is and your comfort level.
Some ratios we suggest are:
One trained adult per three to four infants
One trained adult per three to six toddlers (one and two years)
One trained adult per six to ten preschoolers (three to five years)
What Type of Childcare Facility is It?
What type of childcare or preschool facility are you looking for? This is another item that is dependent on the age of your child and what you are looking for. You may want a small in-home daycare that is just coverage for when you are working. Or maybe you’d prefer a center that is more of a play environment or one that has social skills building. Parents hoping to help their child get a jump on academics in preschool may want to look into the curriculum for each place. No matter what type you choose, your child (and you!) may need help adjusting, and that’s perfectly fine.
How is the Outdoor Area of the Childcare Facility Set Up?
Our current generation of children has more reasons to stay inside than ever before. That’s why, when you’re looking for a childcare facility or preschool, you want to find one that not only has access to a safe, clean outdoor space with age-appropriate equipment but also focuses on outdoor exercise. It’s important that kids get out in the sunshine in order to develop and grow.
What is the Indoor Space Like?
What does the indoor play area of the childcare facility or preschool look like? When looking for the right facility for your child, you’ll want to make sure the space is clean, that the toys are educational and in good repair, and that there are enough toys and activity centers for all the children (we all know it’s important to teach our toddlers to share!).
Some other bonuses might include an in-class library and creative area. For the younger children, is there an adequate area for nap time? These are some things to take note of when searching for your perfect preschool.
What is the Security Protocol at the Childcare Center?
As much as we don’t like to think about it, we must consider what the security protocol is for the childcare facility or preschool. Do they have a list as to who may pick up your child? Is the front door secure? How many entrances are there, and are they each staffed or otherwise secured? What is the procedure for fire drills and lockdowns? Do they review them with the parents? You will want to review this when you go on your tour.
The Breakie Bunch Learning Center meets all the concerns that many parents have and would love to discuss your needs and answer any questions you might have. Your child is our main priority. Now that you have all the information, you can make an informed decision on what childcare facility or preschool you want, and you won’t have to listen to your next-door neighbor’s sister’s input to know you’ve made the best choice for you and your family!