The choice of daycare for infants is always a matter of concern for parents who want the best for their children. Therefore, before starting the search, parents should be clear about what they want, based on a series of essential requirements, which must be prioritized from now on.
When choosing the best daycare for infants, it is up to the parents to judge the emotional climate, the style of relationships, and the forms of reception, among other things. While it is true that the childcare center closest to home is often preferred for the sake of convenience, it is also possible to opt for one that is close to work or to the grandparents. However, many other aspects to consider when choosing include space, activities, staff, and schedule.
Daily activity, the promotion of social relationships, and targeted intervention are the educational cornerstones of the best daycare for infants. We all expect from a daycare center that it should be a space that offers proposals within reach of children, making work in small groups and autonomy possible.
It must take into account the diversity of the different needs of each child and must allow the discovery of one’s abilities, in short:
- Diaphanous, ample, and interrelated spaces.
- Transparent and sunny areas.
- Educational spaces.
The layout of the space must make it possible to implement the pedagogical approaches of the center’s project, but it must also be accessible and safe spaces.
Childcare centers must be staffed by qualified personnel. In other words, the staff must have a degree in childcare, preschool education, or pedagogy for the first (0 to 3 years) and second cycle (3 to 6 years). In addition to the degree, the previous experience of the educators is essential. It is also vital that the staff be constantly renewed. The number of educators should be equal to the number of classrooms, plus one.
It is not mandatory to have a pediatrician, but it is advisable to offer this medical service, a preventive function. If your child has any special educational needs, the center must provide human and material support resources determined by the corresponding educational administration.
Floors should be slightly soft, continuous, insulating, non-slip, and washable. Depending on the needs required by the activities carried out in each space, the level of cushioning will be increased. For example, the activity carried out by children in the corners of the classroom is not the same as in the psychomotricity classroom or the floor under a slide.
Considering that children are constantly developing motor skills, falls and blows are constant, so they should be protected in a way that minimizes the consequences of these falls. It is recommended that they be smooth surfaces and like floors, waterproof, easily washable, without access to electrical outlets within reach of children, and resistant to wear and fire.
Parents should visit several daycare centers and find out about the operation and organization of each one. On the day of the visit, it is good to ask as many questions as you can think of and as many as you feel are necessary. Take advantage of the occasion so that you have no doubts, if possible.
The best daycare for infants should be one that does not just “watch over” the children, but one that provides them with a welcoming environment, in which trained professionals provide them with an adequate basis for their development. The school must offer confidence to families and children. If parents are satisfied with the choice, it will be easier for their children to accept and adapt well to the change.
