Archive for September, 2008

by Iza del Carmen, MomAuthority.com

It’s no secret that children enjoy routines. When there is something new in their life, whether it be a new daycare or in home provider, a child may become frightened, anxious, or nervous.

There are ways to put your child at ease about approaching this new setting and if your child is at ease, you will be as well. Having your child at ease with their new child-care provider will be a win-win situation for all involved.

Depending on the age of your child, it may be possible to get them involved in the choice of a provider. When your child feels they are a part of the process and that they have some say in the situation, they will feel better all around.

Before you begin your search for a childcare provider, ask your child what questions or concerns they have that they would like expressed to the provider. You may even find that they want to ask their own questions. This will get them involved and make them feel important.

When visiting a potential facility that your child will be staying at, it is important to have your child with you as you will be able to see first hand, the reactions from your child. How they feel and interact with the other children and staff will play a big role in your decision.

If you have chosen an in-home provider, you may want to schedule a few “imitation” sessions. Have the child care provider come to your home several times while you are there. The first visit could be an hour long play-date, where you, your child, and the provider are all there together, interacting, and getting to know each other.

During the second visit, start out as you did on the first visit, but make a quiet exit after a half hour. It’s okay to stay near-by, just in case your child gets scared. As for the third visit, greet the childcare provider at the door and then let your child know they are in charge and that you have some work to do in another room or the garage. Try to keep your distance and let your child get used to the new child-care provider.

After a half hour or so, let your child know that you need to run a quick errand and that you’ll be right back. They may put up a little bit of a fuss, but go ahead and leave, even if all you do is drive around the neighborhood for fifteen minutes.

Your child will see that you’ve come back and that the world did not end. All of their fears will be put aside and they will be at ease with their new child-care provider.

If choosing a daycare facility, it may be hard to schedule these initiation sessions as it could interfere with the other children and the facility’s routine. That being said, you may want to pop in unexpectedly in the beginning, and see how your child reacts. Were they having fun? Or were they under some sort of stress?

If going to a daycare facility, one of your child’s biggest fears may be the other children and the fear that won’t be able to make friends. Fortunately, it doesn’t usually take very long for a child to find a playmate. In most cases, after only a few hours, a child will be totally comfortable in being in daycare.

Putting your child can be very easy. Instead of rushing things, take some extra time to get them involved and get them used to their new routine.

by Iza del Carmen, MomAuthority.com

If you are feeling a bit stressed out about leaving your child with a childcare provider, you are not alone. It’s normal to feel anxious when your child is in someone else’s care; even if it is someone you know and trust.

Being able to stop the signs of good child care will help calm your nerves. The following are a few things to look for:

Recommendations From Others

When interviewing a new childcare provider or screening childcare facilities, it’s important to check references and certifications. Just because someone says they have prior experience, licensing, and happy former clients doesn’t mean they do.

They Abide By Rules And Policies

Does your childcare provider follow your state’s rules and policies? For example, some states require a specific ratio of adults per children. Call your state’s licensing department to learn these rules and any other policies regarding childcare. Visit your daycare facility at various times and make sure they are abiding by all rules and regulations.

They Interact Well With Your Child

Does your childcare provider seem open, caring and patient? Do they seem to genuinely enjoy being with children? Are they patient with you when you ask them questions? Most importantly, do they interact well with your child?

Cleanliness Is A Priority

If the childcare provider comes to your home, does your home look nice and well maintained when you get home or does it look like a tornado went through? If at a facility, check to make sure it is clean and that the staff promotes cleanliness.

Safety First

Does your provider look out for the safety of your child? If your child will be going to a facility, look for safety precautions and childproofing. Does the provider know infant or child CPR and first aid? Do they know how to handle an emergency?

They Plan Varied Activities

Turning on the television and watching cartoons may keep your child entertained, but that doesn’t mean they are receiving quality care. Does your childcare provider plan various activities, such as games that allow your children to learn something, fun art projects, and time outside?

Your Child Likes The Provider

If your child seems to truly enjoy spending time with the provider, you know they are in good hands.

These are just some of the signs of quality childcare. You may want to write a list of what you consider as good childcare. Analyze your childcare provider and see if they fit that description. And never be afraid to trust your instinct. You are the parent, and you know what is best for your child.