How to find good childcare on holiday
Looking for childcare at your vacation destination isn’t so different from trying to find the perfect sitter at home: all the same questions will cross your mind.
If you’re traveling to a hotel or resort, it may have a babysitting service. Ask them for feedback from previous parents who’ve used these services, and ask what safety checks have been carried out on their sitters – for example, you might want to know if they have training in first aid and CPR.
Many hotels and resorts also have activity sessions or kids’ clubs for babies, toddlers and older children. Call ahead or check online to find out what they offer – generally speaking, look for a high ratio of carers to children (babies in particular), safe play areas with shade, and a good range of activities to help stimulate the children’s learning and interest.Try to find out whether the staff are properly qualified too. Can your child’s prospective carers speak your language? If your child is shy, hard to settle and only speaks English, it could be upsetting for him if he can’t understand his carers.
Once you’ve decided you’re happy with the amount (and level of expertise) of the carers available to look after your baby or child, you should find out if the building or area used for this provision is acceptable. The facilities should be clean, organized and cared for. Make sure that the staff are trained in first aid and that there’s a doctor or hospital nearby in case of emergencies. Also, make sure that they can cater for any dietary or medical requirements that your child has.
You may have to book spaces in your destination’s kids’ clubs – in the case of babies, places may go quickly so try to be organized and do this as soon as you can. If you don’t like the feel of a place, don’t use it – look for an alternative instead. The concierge or front desk staff may be able to recommend a private babysitter.
The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.