Choosing Childcare



Childcare is becoming more difficult to find across North Carolina as more and more centers closing or dealing with staffing shortages as federal pandemic aid runs out. Finding quality daycare is making it hard for some parents to work, and they need options. When choosing childcare in North Carolina, it's essential to consider various factors to ensure your child's safety, growth and happiness. Here are some options to consider and key things to think about and look for during your search.

Childcare options

If you're looking for alternatives to traditional daycare centers, here are a few options to consider:

  • In-Home Daycare: Smaller, home-based daycare services where a caregiver looks after a small group of children in their own home. This can offer a more personal, family-like setting.
  • Nanny/Shared Nanny: Hiring a nanny offers one-on-one care in your own home. Nannies can be more flexible with schedules and may also assist with household tasks and transportation. Families can pool resources and share a nanny between two or more families, reducing costs while still offering personalized care.
  • Au Pair: An au pair is a young person from another country who lives with the family and provides childcare in exchange for room, board and a stipend. This can be a good option for families looking for cultural exchange and full-time help.
  • Family Care: Relying on family members, such as grandparents, aunts, or uncles, to help care for children is another option, providing a trusted and familiar environment for your child.
  • Parent Co-ops: A childcare co-op is a group of parents who take turns caring for each other’s children. This allows for flexible and affordable childcare while fostering community among families.
  • Preschool Programs: For children aged 2 and older, preschools often provide structured learning environments with half-day or full-day options. Some churches offer half day preschools or moms’ mornings out.
  • Workplace Childcare: Some companies offer on-site childcare for employees, making it convenient for parents to be close to their children during the workday.
  • Babysitting: Hiring a babysitter for specific hours or days may provide more flexible, part-time care, especially when traditional daycare schedules don’t fit your needs.

Each option has its own set of benefits, depending on factors like budget, flexibility and the specific needs of your family.

Daycare Centers

If you are looking for a traditional daycare center, here are things to consider:

1. Licensing and Accreditation

The first step is to verify that the childcare provider is licensed by the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE). Licensing ensures the center meets the state's health, safety and education standards. Some facilities may also have additional accreditation from national organizations like the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), which can be an indicator of high-quality care.

2. Staff Qualifications and Ratios

Ask about the qualifications of the teachers and caregivers. Do they have degrees in early childhood education? Are they CPR and first-aid certified? North Carolina mandates specific teacher-to-child ratios depending on the age group. For example:

  • Infants: 1 teacher for every 5 children
  • Toddlers: 1 teacher for every 6 children
  • Preschoolers: 1 teacher for every 9 children

These ratios help ensure that your child receives adequate attention and supervision.

3. Health and Safety Measures

Inquire about the facility’s health and safety protocols. This includes cleanliness, security measures and emergency preparedness. Ask if the center has procedures for handling sick children, how they administer medications, and whether they have a secure drop-off and pick-up process.

4. Curriculum and Learning Opportunities

Look for a center that offers a balanced curriculum that fosters your child's cognitive, emotional and social development. The curriculum should be age-appropriate, engaging and flexible to accommodate each child's needs. Inquire about daily schedules, opportunities for play and outdoor activities. Centers should also have a clear plan for helping children reach developmental milestones.

5. Communication and Parental Involvement

Open communication is primary. Find out how the center communicates with parents—do they send daily updates, photos or progress reports? Some centers use apps to keep parents informed. Also, check if parents are encouraged to participate in activities or visit during the day.

6. Childcare Costs and Financial Assistance

Childcare can be expensive, so it's important to know the costs upfront and whether the center offers flexible payment plans. North Carolina has programs like Child Care Subsidy that may assist eligible families with childcare costs. Ensure you’re aware of any financial aid options available.

7. Location and Hours of Operation

Consider the center’s location in relation to your home and work. Is it convenient for daily commutes? Also, verify the hours of operation to ensure they align with your schedule. Some centers offer extended hours or after-school care for families with non-traditional work hours.

8. Center Environment and Culture

During your visit, observe the overall environment. Is it clean, welcoming and child-friendly? Are the children engaged and happy? Pay attention to the interaction between staff and children—warm and caring relationships are needed to build trust and comfort.

9. Reputation and References

Ask for recommendations from other parents or check online reviews. You can also request references from the center to speak with current or former parents about their experiences.

10. Trial Period or Drop-In Visits

Some childcare centers offer trial days or drop-in visits, which allow you to see how your child adjusts to the environment before committing long-term. This can be a great way to evaluate the fit for your family.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right childcare in North Carolina is a big decision, but by focusing on key factors like licensing, curriculum and safety, you can feel confident that you're making the best choice for your child’s well-being. Take your time, talk with other parents, visit multiple centers, interview several candidates and ask plenty of questions to find the right fit for your family.

Sources:
NC Voices
ChildCare.gov
NCDHHS
CCSA





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