Most child care settings are sensitive about activities planned around certain religious holidays or historical occasions, but unless you plan to put your child in a specialized care setting, realize that not all observances will coincide with your personal preferences. Look for a caregiver who seems empathetic with ethnic and cultural differences, and discuss any concerns you may have before making a decision. Some programs may be parochial-based or are virtues-driven (or avoid religious or character themes all together), so make sure you are comfortable with the program format as well.
-- Raising Kids of Character
-- Understanding the Importance of Early Education
Most parents don't think to ask about this, especially if their child is only an infant. However, many larger daycare settings won't promote a child beyond a certain level until he is diaper-free or won't allow attendance at field trips. It's not to be mean, of course, but a provider can't be busy diapering one child and lessening a focus on others in her care. Also, will the provider help you to train your child the way you want him to be trained?
-- Potty Training a Child in Daycare
-- Top 10 Tips To Make Potty Training A Success
-- Diaper Free: Natural Parenting vs. Daycare
While you should always have an open door to your provider, know that the worst time to try and talk with a provider is at drop-off or pick-up time, when she's trying to juggle kids, backpacks and jackets, and safe and efficient check-ins and departures. Providers have various ways of keeping in touch with parents, so ask and see how it is done at the place you are considering. Consistent and meaningful communications rates among the top reasons parents are either satisfied--or dissatisfied--with a caregiver.
-- 10 Tips For A Successful Caregiver Conference
-- More Kids Participating in Conferences
-- Two-Way Communications Build A Better Relationship
-- Teaming Together to Help a Child Adjust to Daycare
Personality and style are important considerations, but other factors are important as well. Here are more resources to consider before making this important family decision.
-- How To Choose A Daycare Program
-- 15 Questions To Consider
-- Pitfalls to Avoid When Choosing Child Care
