As a parent, you want to find the safest and most supportive childcare environment for your little one. This will ensure your child's needs are met when you can't be there and that they’ll thrive in a positive, nurturing, and engaging setting. To find a childcare program that checks all of these boxes, be sure to ask these three essential questions when you take a tour of the facilities.

What to Ask When Choosing a Day Care Center

1. How Many Children Attend Regularly?

Find out how many children typically attend the center and how many caregivers are usually working during a given shift. This will give you a rough idea of the child-to-caregiver ratio. Different children and different ages have different needs; however, the smaller the ratio, the more opportunities there will be for personalized, one-on-one attention.

2. What Is a Typical Day Like?

Learn what your child will be doing during a normal day at childcare. Are there sufficient opportunities for learning, playing, socializing, and resting? Are meals and snacks provided, or will you need to bring your own? What games and activities comprise a regular daily schedule? How is discipline handled? The answers to these questions will help determine if the center's standard environment is a good fit and if it will provide the necessary safety, comfort, and peace of mind for both you and your little one.

 3. How Will I Be Updated on My Child's Progress?

You want to be kept informed about how your child is adjusting to day care. Regular updates from the provider will help you monitor your child's progress and behavior, celebrate milestones and accomplishments, and identify areas where the child might need some additional help and support. See how often the caregiver will update you and in what ways, such as face-to-face meetings, evening phone calls, daily emails, or weekly texts. 

When you need day care services in Monroe County, NY, trust the professionals at Imagination Childcare Academy, Inc. They offer inclusive full-day, before-school, and after-school programs for children ages 2 through 12. Their approach to learning focuses on curiosity, initiative, engagement, and creativity in a safe and affirming atmosphere. Call (585) 413-3948 to schedule a tour or visit them online to browse their curriculum.