Choosing a quality child care provider is one of the most important decisions a parent can make.

A great provider will nurture your child and provide a safe, supportive environment in which to grow. To find the right fit for your family, be prepared to ask a lot of questions and be observant.

Ask for a tour of the facilities so you can see teachers and staff working with children. Some things to consider in your search:

Age Appropriate Activities

The best child care centers provide children with a curriculum that supports their healthy development. Age-appropriate activities help children become curious, active learners, setting them up for academic achievement and responsible behavior later in life. Plenty of movement, playtime, and creative activities help stimulate young minds.

Trusting Relationships

Children learn how to build healthy, respectful relationships from the adults in their lives. Your child care center should support this by fostering good relationships between parents, staff and children. Look for providers who build trusting relationships through mutual respect and frequent communication.

Healthy Choices

A good child care program will help your children learn healthy habits at an early age. For example, the YMCA of Southern Maine has incorporated standards from the Institute of Medicine into all their child care programs. Their Healthy Eating and Physical Activity standards are designed to foster healthy food and beverage choices, prohibit screen time at childcare and limit it at home, and ensure that children get physical activity each day.

Licensed Program, Caring Staff

Maine State licensing rules are designed to ensure child care providers meet the developmental, psychological and social needs of children in a safe and healthy environment. Your child care staff should also be trained in CPR and first aid. Finally, you’ll want to observe how your provider interacts with children. Are they patient, enthusiastic, and prepared for the day?

Individualized Attention

Children grow and develop at different rates. Your child care provider should be prepared to support your child at every developmental stage. Look for a provider willing to support your family as a whole, and your child as a unique individual.

Convenient Hours

Does your child care center offer extended hours that support working parents? Look for a provider who offers extended hours so you can avoid overtime fees. The best are open from early morning until at least 6 p.m. 

Financial Support

Childcare is one of the largest expenses in a family’s budget. Is your provider willing to work with you to make it affordable? If you are eligible, you’ll want to make sure your provider accepts state vouchers. Nonprofit childcare centers, like the YMCA in Biddeford, even offer scholarships to ensure that every family is able to send their children to a quality early childhood program.

About the YMCA

The YMCA of Southern Maine is nonprofit organization committed to building strong kids, individuals, families, and communities through programs and services that promote a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all, regardless of ability to pay. The YMCA of Southern Maine’s four branches, nine before-and-after-school sites, five camps, and child care center serve over 30,000 individuals each year. Last year, the YMCA of Southern Maine provided more than $2.1 million in financial assistance to 8,000 youth, individuals, and families to ensure community access to all YMCA programs. The YMCA of Southern Maine is committed to diversity and providing an inclusive community for all. To learn more, please visit www.ymcaofsouthernmaine.org.

Sarah Leighton is the Chief Advancement Officer for the YMCA of Southern Maine.