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Choosing child care

Child Care Action Team

 

If you are a working parent, choosing the right child care arrangement is an important decision that may leave you feeling overwhelmed. The Child Care Resource and Referral Program (CCRR) is a free program funded by the province of B.C. that can provide you with information and referrals to child care providers.

Some things to consider when searching for child care include location, hours, type of care, fees and any program aspects you may want such as program size, philosophy, meals, other languages, etc. Try to visit as many child care programs as you can to get a sense of what each one has to offer. For a complete description of each type of care, connect with the CCRR program for the Parents Guide to Selecting Child Care booklet.

Some questions to ask during a visit to child care providers include:

Are you licensed with the Ministry of Health or registered with the CCRR?

What are your qualifications? What is your guidance policy? Guidance should teach, not punish.

What is your daily routine? Review their parent package/contract. Ask for references.

What are your hours? Do you close for holidays?

Observe the environment: clean, safe, developmentally appropriate play materials etc.

Once you select a child care provider you can expect your child to start with a gradual entry. All children react differently to starting in a new environment. Some are teary, while others run happily to the toys, and some go through phases for months!

It is well known that the early years are the most significant developmental phase in life and that quality early years experiences have a lasting influence on children’s development. 

The CCRR looks forward to assisting you in finding and choosing child care. Visit coastccrr.ca or phone 604-885-5657 or 604-886-3103. The Child Care Action Team (CCAT) is working together with the Community Resource Centre’s Progress Plan. For more information contact Facilitator Hilary Griffiths at 604 740 2222.