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.