Choosing a daycare is a big decision. It's more than just finding a place that can safely watch your child; it's about finding a place that shares your values and beliefs so that you can feel comfortable and relaxed, knowing your child is holistically well cared for. 

Choosing a daycare where you feel comfortable is just as important as the comfort of your child. We’ve put together a list of questions that can help you work through what is most important for you and your family when determining which daycare is best for all of you.

1. Core Values and Beliefs

Values are fundamental principles that guide our actions and decisions, often abstract and focused on what we consider important in life, such as honesty, kindness, respect, or education. 

Beliefs are specific convictions or ideas about the world, shaped by personal experiences, religion, culture, or other factors. When choosing a daycare, parents consider their values and beliefs to find a facility that aligns with their priorities for their child's well-being and development. For instance, a family valuing early learning might prioritize a daycare with structured academic programs, while a family believing in play-based learning might choose a daycare with a more open-ended approach.

• Religious and Spiritual Practices: Does the daycare respect and accommodate your family's religious or spiritual beliefs?
• Ethical and Moral Teachings: Do their values align with your own? Are they committed to teaching kindness, empathy, and respect?

2. Child-Rearing Practices

Feeding, diapering, and napping are crucial aspects of a child's daily routine and significantly impact your decision. Your child may have specific needs and preferences, including allergies, sleep challenges, environmental preferences, the type of food offered, the frequency of diaper changes, nap schedule, and the overall approach. A well-run daycare will have a consistent routine that provides structure and security for children, while also being flexible enough to adapt to individual needs. 

• Discipline Techniques: Do they use positive reinforcement strategies? Does your child feel safe? Do you feel comfortable with their approach?
• Sleep Schedules and Routines: Do their routines match your child's needs and your family's preferences?
• Feeding: Are they able to support your child's dietary needs and preferences?
• Diapering: Are they supportive of cloth diapering if that's your preference?

3. Educational Philosophy

You might prefer a play-based approach that emphasizes exploration and creativity, or a more structured approach that focuses on academic skills. You might prefer specific curriculum used by the daycare, such as Montessori. You may also be interested in the qualifications of the teachers and their approach to teaching and learning. 

• Education: Does the daycare align with your educational philosophy? Are they able to make accommodations for your child’s needs? 
• Learning Approach: Do they emphasize play-based learning, academic instruction, or a balance of both?
• Curriculum: Does their curriculum align with your child's developmental stage?

What to Do If You Discover Misalignments

If you realize that your chosen daycare doesn't fully align with your values after enrollment, it's important to address your concerns promptly. 

Open and Honest Communication

Have a calm and respectful conversation with the daycare staff. Explain your concerns clearly and listen to their perspective. Speak with your child’s provider. If you find that you need a mediator or find that your concerns need to be elevated, don’t be afraid to speak to the daycare director.

Seek Compromise

If possible, work with the staff to find a compromise that meets both your needs and the daycare's policies. 

Consider Alternatives

If the misalignment is significant and cannot be resolved, consider transferring your child to a daycare that better aligns with your family's values.

A Final Thought

A good daycare should not only be competent in child care and the skills of its providers, but should also share your family's values. By carefully researching and selecting a daycare, you can ensure that your child receives the best possible care in an environment that reflects your family's beliefs.