What to look for in a child care centre

Looking for a child care centre with the ‘right ‘fit is so important.  This is the beginning of your child’s foray into the big world and as their parent or guardian we know you want to be assured you are making the right choice.

What is your feeling on arrival?

Is the centre fresh, the team welcoming and does it smell clean? These are all positives.

Look at the interactions with the educators and the children.

Do the educators have children buzzing around them?

As you speak to the team do you get a sense of belonging within the service?

Remember to advocate for your child. Your child is unique, let the team know about their personality, their interests, and learning styles. Does your child love structure? Do they love spontaneity and surprise? Do they love singing? or construction? or nature play? or all of the above. Do they like challenging themselves or are they hesitant and take time to warm to new things?

Giving the team the heads up on these aspects of your child helps them to transition your child into care.

We have all heard that childcare places are hard to get and you don’t want to feel you have no options so from the time you realise you will need care start researching at this point and get your name on a list. Visit a multiple of centres so that you develop an understanding of what you are after.

Look at the philosophy, usually on their websites, does this align with your personal values?

When visiting what do you notice about the children – are they happy, involved, and interacting positively with each other and the educators?

Food Food Food

Does the menu interest you? Does your child have specific health requirements? Ask how they will cater to your fussy eater? How will the centre support your cultural beliefs?