It’s normal to feel uneasy about leaving your baby with someone else; many parents share that feeling. Deciding on childcare responsibilities can feel like a significant step, particularly if you are welcoming your first little one. If you’re thinking about returning to work or school, finding a great daycare is definitely something you’ll want to consider.
A Rockville daycare can be a great choice, but how can parents find the perfect fit for their little ones? It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed with everything to think about, but there’s no need to worry. We’re excited to help you find perfect daycare where your baby and your family can flourish.
It is widely acknowledged that staff training is the single most important indicator of quality childcare. Staff training is necessary because it teaches caregivers what they need to know and how children grow and learn. And with staff training, it’s not a one-and-done kind of thing; caregivers need to participate in professional development regularly.
In the process of searching for child care for your toddler, the most important thing to do is personally visit each facility to ensure that the program is suitable for your child. During the visit, you will have the opportunity to observe firsthand how the program functions, what your kid will go through on a regular day, and how the teachers engage with and work with the children.
Parents who work need to find a good daycare center. But what exactly makes a daycare center good? There is a lot of value in going with your gut, but there are also tools and questions that can help you make decisions.
Here is some of the best advice on how to choose the best daycare for your infant or toddler.
When you look at daycares, make sure you read their overall safety strategy. One important thing to look for in a daycare is that it follows safe sleep practices. Check for see-through cribs when you take a tour, whether online or in person. Your baby’s teachers should be able to see them all the time, even when they’re sleeping.
Learn about their methods for putting babies to sleep and what items are safe to place in cribs. The American Academy of Pediatrics states that babies should sleep on their backs on a hard surface, without any pillows, blankets, or toys in the bed. This will lower the risk of SIDS.
Another important thing to look for in a Rockville day care is one that follows your toddler’s nap and eating times. While you’ve been at home with your baby, you may have found a method that works best for your family. Babies’ plans change all the time, but the right daycare will work with you to stick to your schedule as much as possible.
Some daycares stick to rigid nap schedules, but it’s important to find one that adapts to your child’s natural sleep needs. Teachers should know how to keep a close eye on every child to see if they are getting tired. Rubbing their eyes, sucking on their hands or fingers, or frequently nodding their heads are clear signs that it’s time for a nap.
The best daycare will work with you to find out what your child likes best, whether it’s rocking, singing, being held, or using a pacifier. When your child wakes up, they will be there to comfort them right away.
Your child care center should be neat and clean. During your tour, whether online or in person, ensure that the teachers clean up after each class and keep the classrooms neat. A daycare that keeps their classrooms spotless is a good sign that they know what they’re doing. They probably have cleaning rules to ensure babies can crawl and play without any worries.
Choose a daycare where you feel confident and comfortable with the staff caring for your child. If a teacher takes the time to answer all your questions—no matter how many—while you’re exploring your options, it’s a great sign they’ll maintain open communication with you even after enrollment.
You can ask about anything on Zoom or on the phone; no question should be considered inappropriate. A good toddler daycare caregiver has heard all of this before and will be happy to help.
Take time to get to know the teachers and learn how your potential daycare communicates with parents. Whether you prefer detailed updates, real-time photos through an app, quick messages, or face-to-face chats at drop-off and pick-up (when possible), it’s important to find a place that aligns with your communication style and keeps you in the loop.
Being aware of the difference between a licensed and an accredited school can assist you in making your choice. Licensing is the bare minimum for daycares. Any school you’re thinking about should have a license to run. Nationally accredited centers prioritize creating a safe and nurturing environment for your child. These centers focus on providing attentive care and opportunities for children to explore, grow, and develop skills that support their overall well-being and future readiness.
If you’re planning to return to work after having a baby, your first priority is finding childcare. It can feel like searching for a unicorn—finding a daycare that aligns with your values, meets your needs, has availability, and fits your budget is no small feat. But with a little planning and a sprinkle of luck, you too can join the happy families who’ve found the perfect place for their little ones.
MCCA has been recognized by the Maryland State Legislature for its commitment to Montgomery County issued a quality programs and special needs child care Proclamation in 2016 to MCCA for its commitment to Montgomery County child care for more than 50 years. MCCA was also selected as a 2018 nonprofit finalist for a MOXIE Award for boldness and innovation
MCCA is the oldest nonprofit licensed child care provider in Montgomery County and started its work in 1968 as a Community Action Project of the War on Poverty. Recognizing the need for quality child care programs in their neighborhoods, a group of local activists formed an association to establish centers in Montgomery County that would serve a diverse population and establish high standards for child care. Now, more than 50 years later, MCCA’s dedicated and expertly trained staff continue their tradition of providing high quality child care and play-based education for children.
Families with school aged children who can afford their child care expenses during the school year often struggle to afford the all-day programs they need when school is out for the summer. The Richard Krampf Summer Adventures Scholarship Fund was established to help provide children a safe and stimulating place to spend their weeks when school is out. Please contact an MCCA Director for details on how to apply.
