Hello,eveyone: I really need a good,decent,safe and affordable daycare (home or centre) etc for my 1 year old.

Question

Hello,everyone: I really need a good, decent, safe and affordable daycare (home or centre) etc for my 1 year old. I live in Montreal, close to a metro. I don't know what to look for when searching for a day car/home or a baby sitter or a cargiver. Please recommend. I would prefer - but not necessary - in day care home/center etc close to the metro (green line) stations Monk , Jolicoeur, Verdun, Angrignon in Montreal. Plese help. Thank you.

Answer 1

trash can.

baby will be there when you come back. guaranteed. :D

Just kidding.I hate kids and babies, but I do wish you luck on finding a safe daycare for your little one.

Answer 2

Before putting your child in any day care centre or baby sitter visit the place first.  If when you enter you get a feeling it is a clean place and the staff behave in a professional way and the children seem to be doing something constructive (playing for example) it would be a good place.  

Local government office or telephone directory has a list of these places and people

Answer 3

You should contact your local Child Care Resource And Referral agency, and the county licensing agency, ask for a list of providers.

Call and phone interview the providers.

Do a visit during operation hours. You can see the home in operation and meet the other children.

ask:

How many children they are licensed for

How many are enrolled

What are the meal plans

Do the have a food program

Discipline and punishment

Nap times and routines

Look for safety items such as gates and outlet plugs etc.

Look at yard and fencing

Payment plans, pricing and fees

Contracts

Make sure you visit as many as possible, as every in-home care facility will be different. You really need one that fits you and your child.

Call the licensing agent back and ask specifically if there have been any complaints or violations with the daycare.

I am an in-home provider and I know when the parents do a good interview and inspection I will be getting a good family. Any provider that does not have their license posted with the county numbers should be avoided.

Answer 4

Naeyc is the voluntary accrediting agency in the states.  They have standards which are much higher than any "state minimum requirements".  Their website also has guidance for questions to ask and things to look for when you visit.  You can follow the "global alliance" link on their page to locate help in your area.  Here homes/babysitters are usually cheaper than centers.