- Proper response to medical (e.g. First aid certification) and other emergencies, including how to safely and effectively evacuate the home or child care center
- Understanding limits for television (e.g. no TV for children under two years!) and videos
- Up-to-date staff certification should be ascertained. What type of training has the staff had during the past year?
- Automobile driving certification (i.e. proper license as well as, depending on region, appropriate educational driving credentials), if transportation of your child is involved
Look for a caregiver (and staff) who understands each child and family is unique, and can effectively adapt to the changing needs of each his/her development. Most importantly, you and your family should be comfortable with the caretaker and a bond based on trust should be the basis of the relationship.
Preparing Your Child for Child Care
Most young infants, up to seven-to-eight months, adapt well to warm, caring adults and childcare. Once “separation anxiety” (a normal part of development peaking at about ten months) sets in, extra support and “TLC” on your part will usually make the transition more comfortable. Toddlers may cry, pout, and refuse to go; preschoolers may regress and act out. Up-beat, positive visits to the center with your child, showing her that you like and trust the caregiver, eases the fear; generally, this behavior goes away after a few days or weeks in high quality child care.
As mentioned, this is a most difficult decision. However, careful research and constant monitoring will help you and your family enjoy and flourish in this all-too-important arrangement.
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