Nurseries - what to expect

Many parents opt for a daycare center for their child as they like the fact that a team of qualified staff will be taking care of their child and that he’ll be learning and playing in a structured environment where he can socialize with other children of the same and different ages.

Many parents choose their child’s daycare center based on a personal recommendation, but keep in mind that what’s ideal for one family may not necessarily suit you. Check out several centers before making your final decision and start your search well in advance of your baby’s birth, as good daycare centers fill up fast.

What are the advantages?

- A structured learning and play environment for children – look for accreditation by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

- Your child is more likely to be looked after by qualified staff – although state regulations vary, a license indicates the center has met minimum health, safety and training standards.

- Staff are supervised.

- Centers are usually open all year round with no holidays except public holidays.

- It means reliable childcare, as you don’t have to work around a caregiver’s sickness or vacation time.

- Provides an opportunity for your child to mix with other children and develop social skills.

- Offers an opportunity for you to meet other working parents.

- It’s less expensive than a nanny.

What are the disadvantages?

- No one-to-one care, unlike with a nanny or home daycare and may not be the best option for very young babies, who benefit from individual attention.

- Higher possibility of your child catching colds and other infectious diseases.

- Fixed pick-up times may be a problem if you work late.

- Set rules for all children and parents.

- Charges will be higher than you’d pay for home daycare. They’ll be still higher if you live in a busy city and if your baby is under 12 months of age, since babies require more care; you may also be expected to pay for days when the center is closed, such as public holidays and breaks such as Thanksgiving.

What to look for in a daycare? center

- A good ratio of staff to children. State requirements vary but the NAEYC rates one caregiver to every three to four babies or children as the ideal, with no more than eight babies or 12 older children to a group.

- Do the children look happy and engaged in meaningful activity or play?

- Is the center clean and tidy?Are there any displays around the center of the children’s work?

- Are the staff actively engaging with the children?

- Does the center follow a curriculum that includes a balance of activities?

- Does the nursery have clear policies on behavior, health and safety, emergencies etc?

- Is there an outdoor play area? If so, check that the equipment is safe and well maintained, and that the area is secure.

- How flexible is the center about drop-off and pick-up times?

- Do you have to prepare your child’s meals or does the center offer food? If it does, have a look at the menu options for that week.

- References and good word-of-mouth.

• Child Care Aware (www.childcareaware.org) can provide details of local daycare centers.

National Association for the Education of Young Children (www.naeyc.org)

can provide details of local accredited daycare centers.

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.