Baby Safety Zone - Evaluating Day Care

Evaluating Day Care

When you're evaluating day care for your child, there are lots of things to consider. Many of them will seem obvious. But too many times, people bargain hunt for day care. But you shouldn't have to pay an arm and a leg to get good quality child care.

Questions to Ask

First of all, when choosing a day care facility, don't choose the first one you see. Of course, it helps if you've been referred to the center by other parents who you know and trust. In fact, word of mouth is how most parents start their search. But before you decide on one, visit the center to see how safe and how clean it is. Ask the following questions:

What is the staff to child ratio? (It should be small.)
How frequently are washable toys washed?
What is the center's policy on staff handwashing? (It should be frequent, and always after changing a diaper and before and after serving food to the children.)
How deep is the shock absorbing material under playground equipment?
Are there working smoke detectors?
How is medicine given?
Is the staff trained on handling medical emergencies?
What is the policy for sick children?
Are all surfaces cleaned and disinfected each night?

These are just a few questions to get you started when you're evaluating day care. Compare centers, staff and the answers to your questions before making a decision.

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