Choosing the Right Childcare Provider

Employees are striving to achieve work-life balance, but that can be challenging if they are having difficulty with finding quality, reliable childcare.  According to a study by S.J. Heyman, 24% of working women report that they had to reduce their work schedule at least one day out of seven to meet childgiving obligations.

If you're searching for childcare outside of your home, it's important to locate a facility that will provide nurturing care and age-appropriate learning and social opportunities for your child.  Here are some things to consider in your search:

• What type of care is best for the child?

• Do the hours of operation meet your needs?

• How can you be sure of the quality of the care?

• What happens if your child is sick?

Types of Care
First, decide what type of childcare arrangements will work best for your situation.  There are many options available - having an in-home caregiver or having your child go to a child daycare center, a group daycare home or family daycare home.

Searching for Quality Care
To begin your search, contact local resources or do an Internet search for the Child Care Resource and Referral information in your local area (www.childcareaware.org).  They will be able to give you a list of providers in your area.  Call a facility with your prepared list of questions. Be sure to discuss hours of operation, how many children they care for meals that are provided, cost and whether or not financial assistance is available.

Questions to Ask
Are enough staff employed to adequately care for the number of children served?  Is the staff trained in first aid procedures?  What emergency plans do they follow?  What's their policy on sick children attending the facility?

Plan a Visit
The next step would be for you and your child to visit the facility.  The best time to visit would be in the mornings when the children would be active so you can observe interaction among staff and children.  Watch how the children respond to the caregivers, note the cleanliness and safety of the environment and the variety of toys / learning materials (books, puzzles, etc.) that are available.  Are the children involved in meaningful activities and do they look happy?

Stay Involved
When you decide on a childcare facility, be sure to stay actively involved with your child's care.  If possible, drop in unannounced from time to time to see how things are going.  Talk to the caregiver each day to stay informed about your child's activities, growth and development.

Quality childcare is an investment in your child's future and not a decision to be taken lightly.  By making the right choice of care for your child, you will have the peace of mind that your child is happy and safe during the time away from you.

Sources:
Heymann, S.J., The Widening Gap: Why American Working Families are in Jeopardy and What Can Be Done About It, 2000
Child Care Aware:  www.childcareaware.org
PA Dept of Public Welfare:  www.dpw.state.pa.us/child/childcare

Elaine Boltz, B.A., CEAP, is the Employee Assistance Services Account Executive at Life Management Associates.