Toddler years are exciting and full of energy. It’s an important phase of growth and development. To find a childcare center that has a stimulating environment for your toddler’s physical, emotional, intellectual, mental and social development and above all a caregiver who is knowledgeable, warm and love kids are some factors to look for.

Following is a sample checklist to help you look for a good child care center for your toddler:

Environment

• Is the center clean, bright and cheerful?
• Are the rooms labeled with pictures?
• Is there any curriculum followed for toddlers? If yes, which philosophy is used for learning?
• Are they talked to, read to and sung to?
• How the progress of a toddler is assessed?
• Is there a variety of age-appropriate books and toys available?
• Are these books and toys kept in low shelves easily accessible to children?
• Do children have enough room to move about?
• Is the play area properly cushioned with mats?

Naptime

• Are toddlers allowed to sleep as per their needs or is there any fix time for resting?
• Do they have a separate cot for each toddler?
• Are the room lights dim and room properly ventilated while sleeping?
• Is there someone near the nap area to keep a check on the toddler?

Teacher/Caregiver

• Is staff experienced and trained in child development?
• Does a teacher interact with the child on one-on-one basis?
• Is the caregiver warm, patient and caring?
• How a teacher approaches discipline?
• What is the rate of turnover of teachers/ caregiver in the center?
• Do teachers use a warm tone while talking to children?

Meals & Snacks

• Are meals provided nutritious?
• Are parents pre-informed about the menus?
• Are meal times relaxed and enjoyable?
• If requested, are individual food preferences catered for?
• Do children wash hands before eating?
• Are they encouraged to feed themselves?
• Are they taught table manners?

Health & Safety

• Is there a first aid kit? Are the medicines checked regularly for expiry?
• Are teachers trained on first aid?
• How are allergies catered to?
• Are children’s health record updated and kept separately in a file?
• Are sick children isolated and supervised till the parents reach?
• Are emergency phone numbers and parent’s phone numbers posted near the phone?
• Is there any evacuation plan in case of fire or any other emergency?
• Do they have a doctor’s number who can be called in case of emergency illness or injury?
• Are all electrical outlets covered?
• Are their gates near staircase and doors?
• Is the main door area supervised for any stranger/visitor entering the premises?
• Are cleaning supplies, disinfectants and any medicines kept away from reach of children?
• Are there fire extinguishers and smoke detectors?
• Are the toys big enough to avoid choking?
• Are there any bearer cards/id cards given to parents?
• What is their toilet training approach?
• Is the diaper changing room clean, safe and disinfected?
• Are door latches and locks high enough so that kids cannot reach there?
• Are there proper safety grills present in windows and balconies?

Policies

• How are children enrolled?
• Is there any refund for sick days or credit for vacations?
• Are parents allowed to meet their children anytime?
• Are you satisfied with the discipline policy?
• Can toddlers come before enrolling?

Communication

• Will a daily update be given to parents?
• Are there any parent events/programs?
• How a child will be assessed on the progress?
• Is there a parents group of the center?
• Are conversations between parents and teachers kept confidential?
• Can a parent call anytime during the day?
• How settling period is handled?
• Are there any resources available for parenting concerns?
• How frequent are parent teacher meetings?
• What is the feedback policy?

Before choosing a toddler care center; look out for available options in terms of location, cost, reputation. As a parent, you definitely want to ensure that your child is happy, comfortable and safe in an environment that is caring, fun, educative and nurturing. 
 

Your Guide to Preschools

Choosing an Infant Program
Types of Preschools Options for Parents
10 Signs of Great Preschool
Pre-Schooling Boasts Brain Development

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