by C.K. Matthews

Created on: November 28, 2009

How to choose quality childcare

Being a stay-at-home mom or dad is rarely an option for single parents. Choosing quality childcare that won't break the budget is a hard to accomplish and time consuming task. Here are some tips to help guide you through this chore.

Ask Your Neighbors

Friends and family are always sometimes a great resource for advice but if they do not live in your neighborhood they probably won't know of childcare providers close to where you live. Ask the neighbors with children similar in age where they take their children. Another great source is the local school.

Call the Local Health Department

Health departments can direct you to valuable information for just about anything. They are in charge of childcare licensing and either have a list of registered or licensed providers or can direct you to who has the list. Go here and enter your zip code to find your local childcare organization.

Importance of Using Licensed Providers

While most parents have enough common sense to pick and choose who they want to care for their children using providers who are licensed or registered by the state can save you valuable time and money because they have already done criminal background checks on these providers. Another very important reason is because if your state requires providers to be licensed or registered they can shut down the provider who is watching your children and you will be stuck with no notice and no childcare.

Let Your Fingers Do The Walking

Before you drive around to meet the providers on the list call and ask what their rates are as well as other important information. There is no sense wasting gas to visit with someone you cannot afford.

Important Questions To Ask

1. What are your hours of operation?
2. What are your late fees? Many providers charge late fees if you are late picking up the children.
3. What are your rates?
4. Do you supply diapers or wipes (if needed)?
5. What is in your contract? Many providers require you to sign a contract. Some providers will charge you for when they are closed for vacations, sick days and so on. They will also charge you if your child is absent.
6. Is there an enrollment fee or deposit?
7. How many children do you care for and how many are you licensed for?

After The Choice Has Been Made

Once you have chosen a provider do NOT assume everything is ok. Make random visits (if possible) to check in on your children. Providers make appointments to meet you around what time is best for them. Check in during lunch or any busy time of the day and see how well the provider is managing the children.

Always Have a Backup Plan

There will be several times when you will need a backup sitter. If the provider is sick or if her own children are sick she may be required to close until symptoms have disappeared. If your child is sick the provider may not allow them into care until symptoms have disappeared. They are not trying to be stubborn but are bound by state laws to prevent spread of illnesses.

Never hesitate to check in on your children. If providers tell you they would rather you not check in because it disturbs the routine find another provider. It does disturb the routine but there is nothing more important than your child.

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