Infant Daycare Checklist

Finding Infant Daycare

Seek recommendations from friends, family members, or co-workers

Research the options a few months before the baby will be enrolled.

Compile a list of potential daycares.

Schedule appointments for visiting the facilities and meeting the staff.

Selecting Infant Daycare

Verify that the daycare center is fully licensed.

Talk with the daycare director about the center's policies in regard to hours of operation, tuition costs, security systems and first aid procedures.

Spend time talking with the infant room caregivers.

Examine the layout and contents of the infant room.

Make sure the infant room is located in an area that is separate from classrooms with older children.

Make sure a restroom with a changing table, running water, and hand sanitizers is attached or near to the infant room.

Make sure the feeding area, bedding, toys, and infant belongings are kept clean and organized.

Make sure there is sufficient space for storing diaper bags.

Make sure there is a refrigerator for storing milk and baby food.

Make sure the infant room is baby-proofed.

Observe the infant room staff taking care of the babies.

Make sure the staff is highly trained, educated and experienced in infant development and care.

Make sure the daycare center offers continuity of care by having the same staff members care for your child each day.

Check if the daycare share important milestones that your child has reached.

Bring your baby to the daycare facility for short visits prior to enrollment.