Choosing the right crèche for your child can be a daunting task. The thought of someone else taking responsibility for the safety and well-being of your child during the day when you cannot be around is frightening. Choosing the right crèche or daycare is important, for you and your child, and there are certain things to look out for. 

Look for a crèche with: 

• A good location - close to your home or workplace 

 
A good reputation that is accompanied by a warm and stimulating environment. Chat to some other parents you see when you visit the crèche, and get a feel for the place. If you feel uncomfortable, it is likely your child will feel the same. 

 

A good mix of flexibility and established policies. It is good if a crèche is flexible in letting you pick up and drop off your child. But it should not be lenient in all areas. Illness policies should

be strict, as to ensure your child is not constantly picking up germs

and getting sick.

A structured and child-focused curriculum that is customized for

different children. There should be a mix of physical activities, quiet

times, story times, group activities, individual activities, meals and

rest. Playing outside is important in the development of a child as

well as learning through other sorts of playtime. Television and

movies should play a little or no part in your child’s time at daycare.

Qualified, dedicated, and professional staff. Try finding a crèche

where the staff share your vision and ideas on discipline, feeding,

sleep and other caring issues. It is also proven that children are cared for more and gets more necessary attention in a smaller group. The child to caregiver ratio is important, and differs for different stages of your child’s life.

Ratios:

 

3:1 for under twos 
4:1 for two to threes 
8:1 for three to fives. 

• Clean and safe facilities with a valid operating license. A valid operating license will ensure the standard level the facility should operate at. However, make sure that security is a high priority at a crèche as well as a set system as to how children are handed over to their parents when picked up (Identity cards are a popular solution here). All play equipment should be safe and clean, and staff must ensure personal hygiene with both themselves and your children. 

 

 

How do I find out if a crèche has a good reputation?

 

A good crèche should have a warm and friendly atmosphere. When

you visit, see if you can chat to one or two of the parents whose

children are already going to the crèche.This is one of the best

ways to get a sense of the place. 

Get the permission to look around and observe the children. Happy

and occupied children should answer many of your apprehensions

positively. And, apart from everything else, trust your instincts. 

Also, ideally all crèches should be registered. Unfortunately this is

usually not the case. Do speak to the manager of the crèche to

clarify this issue. Daycares, crèches and nurseries that are an integral part of private or independent schools can be registered as part of the school
 

What activities should I expect to find in the crèche?

The best crèches have a structured curriculum that includes plenty of time for physical activity, quiet time (including daily storybook sessions for groups and individuals), group activities, individual activities, meals, and rest. Activities should be customized for different age groups and especially for children with special needs. 

The crèche should have a wide range of age-appropriate toys and books that will

encourage your child's development and, as she gets older, stimulate creative,

imaginative play. Look at what is on the walls, too. It is important that there are

plenty of drawings and paintings that the children have done themselves.

This shows that their creativity is valued. 

Television, movies and videos should play little or no part in what your child does

at the crèche. If videos are part of the curriculum, they should be age-appropriate  

and educational. A well thought out curriculum stimulates your child's development

and introduces variety and interest, although of course your child will see all of this

as different ways of playing! 

Remember that children learn through play, so look for somewhere that places a

high value on children simply doing activities that they enjoy and having fun.

Many crèches will keep parents informed about forthcoming topics so you can

talk about them with your child at home. 

Children should have the chance to play outside every day - running, jumping and skipping are good for them physically, mentally and socially. If you live in a built-up area, even the best crèches may not have enough space for an outdoor playground. Make sure there is a spacious indoor area and that the children are taken out regularly for visits to the local park or playground under supervision. 

Most crèches encourage parents to send a tiffin/meal along with the child. However, if your child's crèche offers meals ensure they serve clean nutritious food. They should provide you with the daily menu or meal plan. Also check if the kitchen is well equipped to cater to children who are strict vegetarians or have food allergies or intolerances.