Choosing Child Care
Beginning Your Search
Think about what you need
When you start looking for child care, narrow down your choices by considering practical issues as well as your child's needs. Do you need an individual or group care provider? Or do you need an Reference after-school program or Reference camp to fill in gaps between school hours and your work schedule? Here are some other questions to consider:
- Do you need part-time or full-time child care?
- What days of the week do you need child care? Are the days always the same, or do they change?
- During what hours do you need child care (include your travel time if appropriate)?
- What are you willing to spend each month for child care? Keep in mind that well-paid caregivers are less likely to quit.
- How would you describe your child's personality? Does he or she have any special interests? Do you think your child will do best in a small or large group of children?
Visit the care setting
Visit the facility or caregiver's home, and get involved in any special activities. Watch the interaction between caregivers and children. Make sure you feel comfortable with your decision.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference September 14, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics
Reference John Pope, MD - Pediatrics |
|
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