July 26, 2023
It can be difficult for parents to find good childcare. When you visit a child care setting, there are many things to consider and ask. How can you tell if your child is going to be happy? Will they meet your child’s requirements? They provide feedback on how your child is progressing? What if my kid doesn’t like it?
This video will help you understand what makes a good childcare setting and what you should look for. The information in the video is applicable to any childcare, even though it focuses on a nursery. Below is a guide that will help you decide what to do before choosing a childcare provider. It also includes questions you may want to ask during a visit.
1 – Create a list
Make a list of child care providers using the information provided by your local Family Information Service Check:
What are the hours of childcare?
The cost per hour, day, or week
You can ask if there are any places left for your child.
You can easily search for childcare providers near you using our ‘Childcare Finder’ tool. Visit our guide ‘Where to Find Information About Local Childcare’ Visit for more info on other sources of childcare in your locality.
2 – Select your settings and click on them.
You should visit different childcare facilities and ask any questions you have about them in person. You could bring a child or a friend with you to the visit to help make a decision.
What to Look for
Staff that is trained and experienced, and ready to respond to the individual needs of your child
Children who are busy but seem relaxed and happy.
The premises are clean and safe, and the staff is friendly and welcoming. There is also an outside play area.
Children’s homes need to be sensitive and responsive in terms of cultural sensitivity.
The staff and children represent local ethnic and cultural groups
Plan fun activities for children every day. Childminders, Nurseries and Out-of-School Clubs should plan their days according to the interests and passions of their students.
Exercise and quiet time to relax is important.
We are delighted to welcome you and your child.
What questions should I ask?
How many staff members are there to each child? How many children are you responsible for?
What are your qualifications and/or experiences?
What are your daily routines, and how can I incorporate my child and others’ routines into the routines you have created?
Do you have a scheme where one employee is responsible for the child?
How do you discipline your children?
Do you provide meals, snacks, nappies, etc. Do I have to bring my own?
What will your child like?
Here is a list with the most important things that children said when Childcare asked them for their opinions in nurseries:
Check if there is a group of kids that are always together so your child can enjoy time with their friends
Food – make sure mealtimes are relaxed, fun, and that children have access to snacks and drinks.
Children love to play outside, so make sure the area is safe and well-planned.
Find out – provide children with a variety of activities that will allow them to learn.
Check that staff can respond to the needs of each child, comfort them, encourage them, and keep them safe.
You can also ask your child about things that are important to them and you.
3 – Check the quality
Ofsted (the Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills) is usually required to register most childcare providers who care for children younger than eight years. Ofsted inspects all childcare providers to ensure that the standards are met and children are kept safe. you can find out the grade and report of any childcare provider that you’re considering.
4 – Take up references
It can be helpful to hear about other parents’ experiences with a childcare provider. At least two references are recommended. The childcare provider should be willing to provide you with names of parents who have used their service. Remember that what may work for one family, might not be the best fit for you.
5 – Reserve a spot
You can book your child’s spot and specify details such as the hours, start date and who may pick up your kid. It may be necessary to pay a deposit to hold the space open until your child begins.
Allow your child time to get used to a new childcare environment, especially if it is the first time they are in care. Childminders and other childcares will often offer a “settling in period” where you can assess whether or not the environment is right for your child.
Remember that in Auckland, some children aged two and three and four years old can receive 570 free hours of childcare. This is equivalent to 15 hours per week for 38 weeks. You may qualify for additional financial support. Check out our guide ‘Help me with childcare costs’ for more information.
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