You can learn much about a childcare centre by looking at the environment. However, this is not enough. You need to ask questions before you decide if the centre is a good fit for you and your child.
Here are some of the questions you must ask before settling for the best childcare centre in Singapore.
What Is The Day-to-Day Schedule?
Some Singapore childcare centres have a structured schedule that they follow diligently. This helps ensure the children learn to follow a set schedule, so they have an easier time when they join kindergarten.
However, some childcare centres don’t have a specific schedule. The children get to play and only take breaks to eat and possibly take a nap. Nap times are also not specific in some childcare centres.
They follow the child’s needs, so it is not uncommon for some children to nap in the morning and others to do it in the afternoon. If you prefer a childcare center that follows a predictable schedule, choose one that suits your requirements.
How Does The Childcare Centre Handle Indiscipline?
Many parents overlook this question, yet it is critical. Young children mess up from time to time, and this can frustrate their caregivers. Additionally, children will not always follow the rules. They are naturally curious and tend to explore spaces they shouldn’t.
When this happens, how do the caregivers react? Do they snap at the children? Do they correct them gently? Are the children sent to the naughty corner? These are things you need to be aware of, especially if your child is strong-willed and tends to push boundaries.
If you have a preferred way of handling indiscipline, will the Singapore childcare centre accommodate it?
Most childcare centres employ professionals with the right temperament and compassion to handle children when they are hyper, sad, or upset. However, some don’t, so you need to confirm that your child will be in the right hands at the childcare centre.
Are Children Grouped According To Age?
Since play is mostly what children in childcare centres do, they are often not put together in groups according to age. However, the needs of children vary. The risk for children of all age groups is the possibility of neglect, especially if children of a particular age are more demanding.
If you prefer childcare Singapore that caters to the needs of your child’s age, it is best to get one that separates children according to their age.
What Do They Do When A Child Falls Sick Or Is Injured?
Accidents happen and children get unexpectedly sick. What is the childcare centre’s policy regarding such emergencies? Are minor injuries treated at the childcare centre without alerting the parents? Are you okay with this, or do you want to be informed of all injuries, irrespective of their severity?
What does the childcare centre consider an injury serious enough to inform parents? Some childcare centres may not want to cause parents unnecessary stress over something they can handle. However, if you prefer knowing when your child is sick or injured, let the caregivers know so they can make exceptions.
What Happens If You Are Late For A Pick-Up?
Childcare centres specify when they expect parents to pick up their children, whether in a half-day or full-day program. There may be surcharges for delayed pickups, but parents are sometimes required to inform the centre.
Does The Childcare Centre Offer Potty Training Support?
Sending your child to a childcare centre may interfere with potty training, whether your child will be gone a few times a week or all week. A child needs consistency when toilet training, so they need a childcare centre that offers potty training support.
Otherwise, your child will relapse and you’ll be back to square one. Some childcare centres may charge more for the support, so you should ask about this.
These are some of the questions whose answers will help you choose the ideal childcare centre for your child. This is probably the first time you and your child will be separated, and you need to ensure your child’s comfort is maintained even when away from home.