Important Questions To Ask Your Day Care Provider

By Author: Appletree Day School
Total Articles: 2
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Let me take you back to a simpler time. It really wasn't that long ago that men would ride off to earn the bacon while leaving the little woman home to tend to the house and the children. This was day care in San Antonio in the early days. Most women, or men for that matter, would love to have that kind of option in these modern times. The truth of the matter is in these times, the greater need will normally kick both parents out the door to earn what is needed for the roof over their heads and the bread in their toasters. Day care in San Antonio or wherever you may live has to be turned over to someone in someplace we can trust.

When choosing daycare, it is up to you if you feel more comfortable with one provider in their own house and a small number of children or a larger staffed facility with lots of little happy faces. Whichever road you choose, there are several questions you indeed have every right to ask your prospective provider and a reputable one would actually welcome your inquiries about any of your concerns. Keep in mind that most of the basics will be spelled out in the contract. Yes...you MUST have a contract ...
... regardless if it's the lady next door or a full blown academy...you MUST have a contract. What should be covered in the contract is important.

Here are reasonable and proper questions and concerns that need to be clear and concise.
1. Are you licensed or certified?
2. What is the adult/child ratio in the house or facility?
3. Do you have first aid and CPR training? (most states this is a requirement if provider is licensed)
4. What is the policy for sick children? (just sniffles or does fever have to be present?)
5. Do I pay for days I do not bring my child to you? (don't be surprised if you pay for whole weeks/not single days. This is only fair...don't forget that this is your providers means of income just like your job.)
6. How do you discipline the children when it is necessary?
7. Can I make unannounced visits to observe my child? (big red flag if you are told no)
8. What are your security and emergency policies? (how are children checked in and out? Fire drills? Earthquakes/tornadoes, etc.)

Along with these questions, a list of references isn't a bad idea either.
Good luck.

An educationally based child care center and preschool. We are very happy that you have selected AppleTree Day School’s web site to learn more about how we educate and care for your child’s well being. It is a privilege for us to be a part of your child’s formative years.
http://www.appletreedayschool.com