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Finding a safe and stimulating daycare for your child may seem like a daunting task, however, a list of basic questions can get you on your way. What questions should you ask? Resources for childcare checklists are abundant and many parenting Web sites offer great ideas for questions to ask potential childcare providers.

But don’t stop there. Customizing your interview questions to reflect your priorities, along with your child’s unique needs, will give you the best chance at finding the right childcare for your family. Armed with the proper information, you can find the best environment to help your child grow socially, emotionally and physically.

Online Sources

Here are four sources for ready-made checklists:

• ChildcareAware.org
• North Carolina Dept. of Health and Human Services (PDF)
• Wisconsin Department of Children & Families

Cover the Basics

If one of these lists, or a combination of lists, serves your needs, then you’re set. But, make sure you leave the childcare interview with a clear understanding on these points:

• Services offered by the facility
• Ability to provide specific care required for your child
• Assurance that your child will be happy and safe in their environment
• Opportunities for your child to thrive in their learning environment
• The policies and fees involved with care, preferably received in writing

Get the Key Points

Pose questions to cover these essential topics:

• Adult-to-child ratios and group or class sizes
• Caregiver qualifications
• Provider’s accreditation and state licensing requirements

Consider Adding These Questions to Your List:

Religious Beliefs

Whether you are looking for a specific religious emphasis or looking for a nonsectarian setting, a center’s religious affinity might not be clearly stated, so ask:

• What is the center’s religious affiliation?
• Will my child say prayers before eating?
• Will my child be encouraged to celebrate religious holidays? Which ones and how?

Beyond Basic Safety

Delve into how prepared the provider is for dealing with the unexpected:

• What emergency drills do you practice with the teachers and/or the children?
• What type of action plan do you have in place if terrorism or a catastrophic disaster occurs?
• Will I be informed in advance when my child is taken off premises?

Healthy Food Choices

In this age of obesity and heightened allergy concerns, question the dietary options your child will be offered:

• Are fresh fruits and vegetables served daily?
• What beverages will be served to my child?
• If juice is offered, is it 100 percent fruit juice? Is juice diluted?
• Can you accommodate a picky eater, allergic child or other special nutritional needs? Will this cost more?

While your child’s care needs should be of utmost importance when selecting a provider, you, too, must feel secure with the choice. Take your time in compiling the right questions for your child — and your own piece of mind — then carefully interview care providers and check references.

Finally...Visit the Center Twice!

Drop by once for a fact-finding mission, asking your list of questions. Stop by a second visit, this time with your child, to view the setting and assess her comfort level as well as the provider’s initial interaction with your child. Taking time to make a selective choice with give you peace of mind and offer your child an opportunity to take those first steps away from home on the right foot.