Koala Daycare

Hello and Welcome to Koala Daycare

Dear families,                                                                        

    Congratulations and welcome to the search of a quality childcare program. Choosing a childcare program can be a very stressful decision. You will want to choose the type of daycare that will foster your child's learning as well as ensure their safety and happiness. It is wise to start your search even a year in advance.

Here are some helpful tips to think about before you start your search:

• Think about what type of childcare you and your child will require.

• What hours/days of the week do you need childcare for?

• Do you need full-time or part-time childcare?

• What is your childcare budget?

• Location - Is close to home, school or your workplace better?

• Are you looking for a home daycare, nanny or a commercial childcare setting?

    Once you have made the decision on the types of childcare you are interested in, it is best to find a minimum of three locations to visit.

    Word of mouth is one of the best ways to locate a good childcare setting. Ask friends, neighbours, relatives and co-workers who have been in the same situation. Community centers, schools, newspaper's, libraries and the internet are also great places to search for childcare in your area.

    Before you start making calls, make sure you write down all the questions you would like answered. If you are satisfied with your conversation, ask to book a visit. When you go to visit any childcare setting the things you should be looking for are:

• Is the environment clean, inviting and safe?

• Does the childcare provider(s) model patience, sensitivity, energy and a fun demeanour?

• Is there a wide variety of age appropriate toys?

• What types of group activities are offered?

• What type of gross motor activities (dancing, playing outdoors etc) are used?

• What types of fine motor activities (drawing, building, modelling etc) are available?

• What activities are offered to stimulate the children’s imagination and language skills?

• What activities are in place to encourage logical thinking (puzzles, games etc)?

• What types of meals and snacks are offered?

• Are they well balanced and offer a wide range of foods from the Canadian Food Guide?

• What supplies are you required to bring (diapers, wipes, formula, special foods, etc)?

    When you are at the end of your visit, ask for references! It is always important to do a background check before placing your child in someone else's care. Ask for current and past references.

    Feel free to call or e-mail me anytime with your childcare needs and I hope that some of these tips can help you in your search.

Sincerely,

Kimberly Phillips

Koala Daycare