Finding the right childcare center for your children can be difficult. There are many things to consider, including their policies, security, amenities, staff qualifications, availability, and cost. With so many options out there it can start to become overwhelming.
You want your children to be happy, safe, and encouraged to learn and develop. As a trusted daycare provider in Orlando, we wanted to share some tips for choosing the right childcare center for you and your children. If you feel that we meet your needs, feel free to stop in for a tour Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm.
Here are some of our tips for choosing the right daycare center for your children:
Don’t Wait
Waiting until the last minute to start your search for a childcare center can bring added stress. Finding a childcare center early can allow you to have plenty of time to compare and ask questions. Consider your child’s behavior, health, temperament, and special needs and then match the services provided at your childcare provider to their needs.
Check for Referrals
You’re not the first parent to search for daycares. Checking online reviews can be a great resource for seeing other parent’s experiences. Websites such as Google+, Yelp, and Yellow Pages are all places that may have reviews for a daycare in your area. Once you’ve narrowed down a few local centers with good standings, you can begin to call and visit your choices.
Visit the local Orlando Daycare Centers
Once you have a few selections in mind, visiting them is the next step in your process. Look for how the teachers/ caregivers interact with the children; what toys and learning materials are present, and ensure the facility is organized and clean.
Another thing to check is the child-to-staff ratio. The fewer children there are per adult; the better. There is however, a ratio mandated by the Department of Children and Families for the State of Florida.
Infant 4:1
Ones 6:1
Two 11:1
Threes 15:1
Fours 20:1
Fives 25:1
Ask about caregiver qualifications during your visit and what kind of activities they participate in with the children to promote learning.
The Cost
Lastly, it is important to look at the cost of the childcare center when making your decision. Not only the cost of tuition but also know what is included in that fee and what might be extra. Does the daycare include lunch? Are there additional services you may need? Know the answers to all of your questions before signing up.
After doing all of your research and preparation choosing the best Orlando daycare will be so much easier. This will help settle your nerves and get you ready for that first day or daycare.
Kids & Company offers so much more than the typical Orlando daycare. Free hot meals, after school care until 7pm, and we even have the option for Saturday and night care at our Curry Ford location. If you have any questions about our programs, including infant care, childcare, VPK, or after school programs give us a call at (407) 227-1015.