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Dropping children off at daycare centers is not something parents relish, but, getting ahead or even staying afloat today makes daycare avoidance near impossible for many - even more so for single-parents. Although attracted to the fun daycare has to offer, children often miss their parent, especially mom, quite a bit after they're dropped off. In order to help children adjust to having caregivers other than mom or dad look after them, it's important that parents find the best center they can find for their tots. For kids, having a single-parent means they will more than likely only see that one parent throughout the day for all or most of any given week. This makes time single-parents spend with their children all the more important and precious.

In order to keep the hours and minutes children are left in attendance with someone other than a parent, single-parents should try to choose a daycare center that is close to their jobs if their children need care while they're working. They should try to choose a center that is close to their school if they have children who need care while they're attending classes. Situating children close to places of destination reduces the amount of time children have to spend at centers. This isn't always possible, but it is easier on children, and if parents have to leave the children for long periods of time, it'll be easier for parents drop in to see their children on breaks or at lunch.

Finding centers is as easy as looking in the yellow pages. You can also ask people you know who utilize centers for their kids where they take them and how they like their centers. Make a list of at least three that seem doable and plan visits to each.

Take your child with you to each center you visit. While there, observe your child's reaction to the environment, the teachers, and the staff. Likewise, observe how the workers relate to your child and other children in the center.

Find out how many care givers the centers employ per child and make certain that number is in compliance with your state's laws. Insufficient personnel means your child could be deprived of reasonable amounts of attention.

Observe what current daycare children are doing and try to assess their happiness states. Note the types of activities the center makes available for the tots, activities the registered children are drawn to, and how many of the most used activities, i.e. computers and toys are available. You want to make certain your child will have a fair chance to utilize those activities.

Look at floors, tables, counters, etc to assess their cleanliness. Find out about napping conditions including what types of surfaces the children sleep on and whether or not they bring their own blankets. Children should not sleep directly on cots or share blankets.

What about restrooms. Are they coed? How many toilets are available? Are the toilets children friendly - meaning are they low enough for children to easily seat and remove themselves without assistance? What are the rules re bathroom use and privacy?

Find out what types of food the centers serve and how often the feed the children. Will it be alright for you to supply your child's food yourself should you choose to do so? Some children don't like meals daycare centers provide.

After you've visited all the centers on your list, if you're satisfied with any of them, remember to choose one close to your job or school if possible. If you're not satisfied, this may be a drag, but you need to know that your child will be happy and well cared for while you pursue your dreams, so go back to the drawing board and check out some more locations.

Learn more about this author, R. Renee Bembry.
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