Selecting a child care provider is one of the most important early decisions for new parents. Each family is likely to have different needs, but there are a few key factors that nearly every child can benefit from. Here are a few to keep in mind as you consider providers this year. 

3 Tips for Choosing a Child Care Provider

1. Prioritize Experience

An experienced child care provider is likely to provide children with an established curriculum and steady environment. When gauging this factor, consider how long the provider has been in business, as well as the individual experience of the staff. Additionally, consider how many siblings or repeat students the facility gets, as this is a solid indicator that families are happy with their services. 

2. Look for Flexible Scheduling

It’s not always possible or practical for families to make other child care arrangements on school holidays, snow days, or over the summer. If your workplace or other obligations are not flexible, then you may benefit from a provider that stays open even when many other schools are closed. Ask about school holidays and summer programs, specifically. 

3. Balance Learning With Fun

Each kid learns in a different way, but most are more likely to take in lessons when doing so in a fun, supportive environment. Look for providers that push kids to learn numbers and languages using an established daily curriculum, while balancing that with plenty of playtime and opportunities to explore the outdoors. Supporting kids’ social and emotional needs can also free up their brains to focus on daily curriculum. 

If you’re looking for a child care service that offers all these important features, contact A Rising Star Children’s Center in Croton-on-Hudson, NY. The child care service offers programs for infants.  toddlers, preschool aged  and school aged kids. Services balance an award-winning curriculum with social and emotional support. The center also has a 4 large outdoor playyards with plenty of space for kids to enjoy fresh air daily. Visit the website for a full list of programs, or call (914) 862-4283 to schedule a visit.