Finding childcare can be a very difficult task and yet it is one of the most important decisions you will make during your child’s early years.

 

Here are a few keys to success:

 

• Start early

​

• Check out potential child care providers

​

• Conduct a phone interview

​

• Check references

​

• Interview them in person at the child care so you can see the environment, interactions between the childcare provider and children, etc.

​

• Have a predetermined list of questions or a checklist such as: “Is this the right place for my child?” to guide the interview and focus your eyes on the type of care that is provided.

​​

• Check compliance reports at DHS Compliance Reports.

​​

• Don’t ignore your gut instinct. If you don’t feel right about it or are unsure, it is probably not a good fit for your child or you.