Debbie If you’ve got a child of preschool age, you’ll probably find yourself looking for childcare services, but what do they offer and how can they help?
We’ve taken a deep dive into the world of childcare and produced an essential guide on what you should know:
- How to Choose the Best Childcare Service Provider
When you are looking for the best childcare provider, look for one that offers a holistic, whole-child development approach like Castle Hill Childcare. A good provider will have a range of programs suited to different age groups which target key learning stages in your child’s development, and they will be skilled at encouraging engagement with a play-based approach which stimulates curiosity and excitement.
- What Can a Childcare Service Offer
A childcare service provider should be more than just minding your child. They should provide a proper curriculum and have a passion for helping to develop your child academically, physically, socially, and emotionally. They should have a good range of activities, such as read-aloud story sessions, experiments, counting games and more. At their core, they should be looking to help develop your child’s cognitive and social skills, which will help prepare them for school.
- What Can You and Your Child Expect from A Childcare Centre
You can expect a good centre to be open from 7 am until 6 pm. Throughout the day your child should be learning in an engaging and fun way and taking part in physical activity. They should receive good nutrition throughout the day, which may include meals like breakfast and lunch as well as snacks to keep them fuelled for their busy day. Click here for reasons why you should radiate nutrition.
- Are All Childcare Centres the Same?
No. Whilst the basic service offered may well be similar, there are things which make an exceptional childcare provider stand out from the crowd. A provider who is dedicated to making sure your child is happy, healthy, and curious is key to them forming a bond. Some will offer a communication portal, keeping parents up to date with activities and events, food and drinks charts, photos and more, creating a community spirit, meaning you are not just dropping your child off and picking them up, but you are fully involved every step of the way.
- Safety is a Key Consideration
Any childcare centre must always ensure the safety of everyone in their care, so this must be at the forefront of everything they do. All staff should be suitably vetted, and it must be a priority that they are safety trained. They must be able to give quality care to all children. Hygiene standards should be well maintained at all times, and a reputable centre will allow you to take a tour of the facilities.
Remember, when you’re employing a childcare provider, you are investing in your child’s future so it’s one of the most important decisions you’ll make for them and a good provider with be happy to answer any questions and book a tour of their centre. Click here for information on subsidised childcare.
