Sending your little one off to daycare can feel like a leap of faith. Every parent wants to be confident that their child is in safe, caring hands, but knowing exactly how to make that happen can be a bit of a mystery.
Ensuring your child’s safety at daycare takes a mix of observation, communication, and proactive planning. So, how can you set your mind at ease and make sure your kiddo is safe, happy, and thriving while you’re away? Below are expert-backed tips and savvy strategies for making daycare a safe haven where your child can explore, grow, and play with confidence.
The Pepper Pot publication mentions that before choosing a daycare centre, as a parent you must research multiple options, including online reviews and past complaints about that particular place. It is encouraged that you visit the facility unannounced to see the operations, cleanliness, and staff interactions.
Ensure the staff-to-child ratio is high to avoid oversight and have a way of checking staff qualifications, including training and background checks, to ensure professional handling and responsible treatment of children. “Qualified staff members are more likely to handle children professionally and treat them responsibly. Ensure that they have the requisite training, including CPR and first aid, and have undergone background checks.”
Security cameras are crucial in daycare centres to deter potential threats and ensure the safety of children, states Trellidor. They are said to monitor entryways and areas with high activity, assisting staff in monitoring children and resolving bullying issues. Therefore as a parent, you need to be sure that the daycare you choose to enrol your child in has these cameras, as well as intruder alarms for they are said to be essential for preventing unauthorised access and ensuring children’s safety.
The Care publication says that parents should be cautious of childcare centres that don’t encourage visiting their child’s classroom. It is emphasised that parents should feel comfortable visiting and ask about visiting policies during their tour.
Intervention measures should be in place to keep all children safe and healthy, including written guidelines for illness stays.
Also see: Tips for single moms raising boys
