The Value of Visiting Child Care Services

Choosing high quality childcare for your little one can be an overwhelming process. There are so many things to consider, from locality, learning philosophies down to the style of care you need - whether it's long day care, a centre based educational approach or a family day care setting - how do you choose and where do you start? 

Start by checking out the types of child care available. This will get you well accquainted with the differences on care that's out there so you can rule some things out before you really begin.

When it comes to finding the best quality care, that's different! There are plenty of checklists available and they start with the basic checklist and go right through to helping you determine how to establish good relationships with the child care provider.

You might also find it helpful to read our article on comparing the different child care options, so you can be certain the decision you make is the best for your child and the rest of your family.

One of the best ways to make your final decision about which child care service to use, is to compile a short list of your top two or three services and then visit them. Visiting your preferred child care service during normal operating hours will give you great insight in to how the staff interact with the children, how the children interact with each other, and ultimately whether the service is the right place for your child.

Most child care services are happy for parents to drop in, don't feel awkward about visiting and make sure you ask lots of questions.

Plan ahead

It is worth spending a little time planning your visit so you gain an accurate idea of how the service works and how well it meets the needs of your child.

Start by printing a copy of our Child Care Centre Checklist to take with you.

The checklist will be a useful reminder of things to look out for and potential questions to ask. It doesn't have to present as a formal checklist but the educators will be happy to help you check off those items most important to you.

Timing is everything!

Make sure you visit the service in ‘non-peak hours' i.e. avoid drop off and pick up times. Although most services allow parents to drop in at anytime, for your first visit it might be worthwhile calling and making an appointment, this will ensure a staff member is available to show you around and answer any questions. Also, a good point it so check when nap times are. You would rather pop in when the children are out and about playing and not napping. Seeing these interactions can be priceless! 

Interactions

Pay attention to the interactions between staff and children, take note of the activities the children are doing, check out the indoor, outdoor and sleeping environments.

Ask away!

Our educators are the experts and if there's one thing tours have taught us over the years, it's to trust your experts and ask ALL the questions! If you have more questions following your tour, give them a call! The more information you have the easier it is to make that all important decision! 

Success!

When you have successfully found a service, read our article on helping your child adjust to child care to ensure the first day is happy for everyone!