1 Look for the day-care center six months before baby is registered. Many parents find it important that the center be close to home so they can walk there and back.2 It is important that the day-care center have a warm atmosphere and that the employees be patient with and understanding of the children. Go to the center when babies are picked up and speak with the parents there to pick up their children, so you can get their opinions about the center.3 It is important that the day-care have flexible hours, but also that they have clear rules on its operation.4 A good day-care center requires its personnel and children to be vaccinated. Ask what illnesses require baby to stay home, and for how long.5 Day-care centers usually invite parents to participate in the center, helping with activities or accompanying the children on excursions and outings. If you note that the center is not open to this policy, it would be better to cross it off your list. 6 Day-care centers must have stimulating activities, schedules that include physical activities, group plans, meals, games and free time, all appropriate to the age of the baby. 7 Day-care centers must have a variety of toys according to the baby's age, that stimulate his development and creativity. If your are to prepare his food at home, you must let the center know your rules for the food. If, on the other hand, the center provides the meals, find out if they include all the food groups and support good nutritional habits. 8 Those persons who work in day-care centers should have higher education, at least to the level of 2 years university studies in child development, preschool education and first aid training. Caregivers must be responsible, enthusiastic and well prepared. They will ask you specific questions about your child's health and usual care. 9 Ask at various day-care centers what the average student-to-teacher ratio is, and whether the center offers good work conditions to its employees so that your child will not have to go through frequent changes of teachers. 10 Make sure that the day-care center is a clean and safe place. The floors, walls and kitchen must be clean. The different areas of the center should be appropriately heated or cooled, have good lighting and ventilation. 11 The day-care center must follow basic safety rules. Toys and installations must be in good condition. The windows must be protected by bars. Medications and toxic materials must be kept out of the reach of the children. Smoke detectors must be in working order and air conditioners and heaters must be covered or protected so that the children cannot touch them. 12 The day-care center must have an outdoor play area where the children can run and jump, as this is important for their physical, mental and social development. If this is not possible, make sure that at least it has plenty of space for indoor games. You also must be sure that the center is properly licensed and credentialed to operate.
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