Tips When Looking for Childcare at In-Home Provider's Homes

Children are a parent's very precious jewels. Who cares for them while a parent is working is a matter that is not to be taken lightly. Children in daycare or other childcare settings can spend up to half of their waking days in the care of someone who is not their parents. Parents want to be selective in choosing the best provider for their children. One type of setting is the in-home childcare provider. What should be considered when looking at in-home childcare providers as a possibility for your childcare setting?

Licensed vs. Unlicensed

This is a large debate among parents. Does licensed always equal better? Possibly; however, not all childcare settings that are licensed are regulated by the state. All licensing means is that the home has passed certain requirements and inspections held by the state so that the provider receives a childcare license. Unlicensed childcare includes child care that is not required by law to be registered or certified. Providers who are licensed may upkeep certain safety and ratio requirements, but the provider generally only receives periodic monitoring by the state.

References and Turnover Rates

It is important to obtain references from former clients of the prospective childcare provider. If no references from former clients are available, see if there are any family members or friends who you can speak with. Also, see what the turnover rate is for this provider. Has she or he lost many clients in the previous year? This is important to consider. If the turnover rate is high, you might want to think about why this is so. Is the childcare provider difficult to get along with? Were the parents unsatisfied with the type of care provided?

Schedule

Younger children thrive off some type of scheduling. Even if it is as simple as playtime, naptime, snacks and meals, a schedule gives children a sense of security. Ask the prospective provider if there is any type of schedule that will be implemented. It is better if activities are planned as well, but that isn't always necessary.

Activities for children