Selecting a good crèche takes time and diligence. There are many choices out there. How do you know a good crèche from a bad one? There are signs to look for and questions you should ask.
Word of mouth is probably the best way to start. Talk to other parents who use crèches to find out their good and bad experiences. Make sure to take notes so you will remember which ones to investigate and which ones to cross off the list.
You should start your search for a crèche at least six months before you need it. This way, you will not feel pressured to choose a crèche because you are simply running out of time.
A proper crèche will have set hours and rules in place. They should have a sick child policy and an emergency plan.
If the crèche does not allow a parent to drop in unexpectedly, they probably have something to hide. Stay clear of any crèche that enforces this policy.
Ask all potential crèches what their philosophy is on discipline and choose one that is in line with your philosophy. It’s important that a child receive the same messages concerning discipline while they are at home and at a crèche.
Make sure that the environment is stimulating with many activities that not only involve playtime, but have an educational purpose.
Ask the crèche about their hiring practices. You need to know that the staff is caring and responsible.
A good crèche will be clean. Make sure you look around for signs of cleanliness. Check the bathrooms, kitchen, and nappy changing areas.
Look at the outdoor play area for safety hazards. If there is not an outdoor play area, make sure that the crèche has adequate space indoors for playtime.
If you do your research and do it properly, your chances of being satisfied with the crèche that you choose are much higher.
Word of mouth is probably the best way to start. Talk to other parents who use crèches to find out their good and bad experiences. Make sure to take notes so you will remember which ones to investigate and which ones to cross off the list.
You should start your search for a crèche at least six months before you need it. This way, you will not feel pressured to choose a crèche because you are simply running out of time.
A proper crèche will have set hours and rules in place. They should have a sick child policy and an emergency plan.
If the crèche does not allow a parent to drop in unexpectedly, they probably have something to hide. Stay clear of any crèche that enforces this policy.
Ask all potential crèches what their philosophy is on discipline and choose one that is in line with your philosophy. It’s important that a child receive the same messages concerning discipline while they are at home and at a crèche.
Make sure that the environment is stimulating with many activities that not only involve playtime, but have an educational purpose.
Ask the crèche about their hiring practices. You need to know that the staff is caring and responsible.
A good crèche will be clean. Make sure you look around for signs of cleanliness. Check the bathrooms, kitchen, and nappy changing areas.
Look at the outdoor play area for safety hazards. If there is not an outdoor play area, make sure that the crèche has adequate space indoors for playtime.
If you do your research and do it properly, your chances of being satisfied with the crèche that you choose are much higher.