Recommended daycare for 2 yrs old in seattle area?

Question

We are relocating to the seattle area, and I start working for Microsoft. We don't know where we'll live yet, probably in Redmond, Kirkland or Bellvue.

We have a 2 years old, and looking for daycare. Microsoft have arrangements with:

KinderCare,

Childtime learning centers,

Community Childrens Center,

The Discovery Center in Kirkland,

Grasslawns children's center in Redmond,

La Petite Academy,

Legacy — A Montessori Childcare Center in Kirkland

I would appreciate any insights and opinions about these places, as well as recommendations for others, if you have any.

I prefer a place that works year round and for long hours - so I will have the option to leave my kid there when I need to, and not stress about finding a sitter in the last moment.

So, pour your wisdom on me

can't wait for your answeres...

Answer 1

I am glad you are not waiting until you get there ....this is a good start for you and your child.  I have a couple of suggestions you should pursue.  I know nothing of this area but would consider you to be a expert already!! You know your child better than anyone....

1) What are your needs as a parent/mother?  Have your "mission statement" in mind and find a school that meets your needs. I would say that this is most important due to the fact that transitions are difficult and stressful for 2 year olds.  At this age of development your child has yet to see themselves as a separate entity.  Has your child been separated from you for long periods before?  Its stressful for them.  Moving to a new town then moving from school to school will be very unsettling.  You should find out what the mission statement is .....what types of schemes are used for behavior problems, ratios, snack, dramatic play, can the 2 year olds have interaction with older age groups promoted? Do you want that? (may things to consider) Get your needs (child and you) and see if they are met within the program.  A program might be excellent to another but not meet your individual needs.

2) Find out what type of accreditation the school has.  The gold standard for this could be found thru the NAEYC web site very easily.  Montessori is always a sound choice but it might not be exactly what you want.

3) I just cant believe that Microsoft does not have a school for its employees. My friend was the director for 2-8 year olds with Patagonia and it was amazing!!!  Microsoft is waaaay bigger.? Have you looked into this?

ok I just looked and you do not have a child dev. center. I would got to the NAEYC website(national association for the education of young children) and find out the accreditation, talk to people on this post who are from that area and then follow your needs as a family.

Best of Luck

Answer 2

I would check their accreditation first. Once you know the area you will be living try to visit the ones you think you want at different times. Sometimes the national schools will have a different teacher/student ratio when they have visitors than at other times of the day. They stay within the state requirements but do not always meet standards of associations such as the NAEYC. Can you possibly contact future co-workers that have children in a day care? Good luck, you are a good parent.