Start Daycare - Going Back to Work

Back To Work - Starting Daycare

Having to send a new baby or child to daycare is a difficult decision, but one that most parents will have to make eventually. It is very important to consider the decision carefully. The child's experience in daycare is very important to his/her happiness and emotional development.

Which Age to Start Daycare?

Some parents do not have a choice about when to put the baby in daycare. Employers can provide up to 8 weeks of paid time off for the birth of a baby. Starting daycare is probably more traumatic on the mom than on the baby. At six-weeks of age, strong attachments have not developed, but waiting until the child is older gives the parent more time to bond. Older toddlers may have a difficult time transitioning from parent to daycare. The decision to start daycare has to be carefully evaluated to satisfy both parent and child.

Center Daycare or Home-Based Daycare

Daycare centers have lots of children and provide structured learning environments. Centers have outdoor play equipment, and will often transport children to other learn and play facilities.

Home-based daycares are smaller and more intimate. They will incorporate learning and play in a more relaxed environment, but often will not transport children.

Some parents prefer the smaller home setting for young babies, and the larger centers for the socialization that it provides the older child.

Always interview and visit at least three centers or home-based facilities before making the final decision to start daycare.

What to Look For

No matter which type of daycare is chosen, there are indicators of quality care. First, trust the nose. The facility should smell fresh and clean. It should look well organized and clean. Look in corners and at furniture and equipment to determine if it is dust-free and well cared for. Clutter might be expected if children are playing with toys, but order should still exist.

• Ask to see documented schedules of activities, as well as weekly meal plans. If the home-based daycare is certified by the county/state, these should exist. The meal plans should include vegetables and fresh fruit, not cookies or processed foods.
• Ask for documentation on all workers current certifications on pediatric first aid and CPR.
• Look to see if teachers and aides are interacting with children. Are they on the child's level on the floor or in chairs? Teachers should be engaging children in active play and/or reading.
• Does the center have bright posters on the walls for visual stimulation? Look for lots of books and games that stimulate learning and small motor skills like puzzles and interlocking toys.
• The home-based center should have separate activity areas that focus on gross motor skills, math and science learning, language arts development, and pretend play. These are basic requirements of certified home-based environments.

Sick Kids

It is very important to know and understand the facility's policy for children with minor health issues such as common colds, low-grade fevers, or gastroenteritis. The American Academy of Pediatrics and The American Public Health Association do not recommend that children stay out of daycare for minor health problems. A survey conducted by the Medical College of Wisconsin found that 57% of daycare directors excluded children with mild illnesses. Find out how the daycare handles health problems that arise during the day. Review the policy before the child starts daycare.

References

Ask for, and check references for the daycare provider. Ask for names of families that left the daycare facility for any reason. A quality facility will not be offended at this request. Talk to the reference about the child's emotional care at the facility. Parents will instinctively know if their child is happy and being engaged. The child will be fully interactive with parents at home if they are properly stimulated in daycare.