Finding the right childcare center for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. It’s not just about convenience—it’s about ensuring your little one is in a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment. With so many options available, knowing what to look for can feel overwhelming. That’s why I’ve put together this guide to help you navigate the process and find the best childcare center for your family’s needs. Here are the key factors every parent should consider when choosing a childcare center.
Find a Licensed and Accredited Center
When parents ask me what they should be looking for in a childcare center, my number one recommendation is to make sure the center is licensed. A state-issued childcare license ensures that the center meets basic safety and operational standards.
But beyond that, I highly encourage parents to seek out accredited centers. Accreditation means a facility has gone beyond basic licensing requirements to meet higher standards in care, education, and safety. To keep these standards, external experts review the center’s policies, curriculum, and staff qualifications.
Verify Staff Qualifications
The heart of any great childcare center is its staff. You want to make sure that the teachers and caregivers are well-trained and qualified to provide the best care for your child. One crucial qualification to check for is CPR and first aid certification—every staff member should have these skills from their first day on the job.
Additionally, ask about their educational background and experience working with young children. Do they have degrees or certifications in early childhood education? Are they engaged in ongoing professional development? Passionate and qualified staff create a nurturing environment where children can grow, learn, and feel secure.
Check Cameras and Safety Procedures
In today’s world, safety is a top priority for any childcare center. One of the best ways to ensure your child’s well-being is to choose a center that has security cameras in place. Cameras help monitor daily activities and make sure the best practices are being followed.
Find out if the center has an open-door policy, allowing you to walk in at any given time to check on your baby. Ask about their emergency protocols—how do they handle fire drills, medical emergencies, and other unexpected situations? A quality childcare center should have clear, well-communicated policies to keep your child safe. At Themba, we have all of these policies and procedures in place.
Use Your Senses
Your senses will provide you with the data for perception. Your instincts as a parent matter, and paying attention to what you see, hear, and feel when visiting a childcare center can tell you a lot about its quality.
What do you see when you walk in? Is the environment clean, well-organized, and filled with age-appropriate activities? What do you hear? Are children engaged and happy, or is there chaos and distress? What does it smell like? A well-maintained center should have a fresh and clean scent, not lingering odors. Pay attention to how the staff interacts with children and parents—are they warm, welcoming, and attentive? A high-quality childcare center should feel inviting, safe, and filled with positive energy.
Time to Make an Informed Decision
Choosing the right childcare center requires careful consideration, but with the right approach, you can find a place that feels like a second home for your child. When learning how to find the best childcare center, it’s important to look for those that are licensed and accredited, have qualified staff, and have clear safety procedures. Don’t forget to also use your senses and trust your instincts! Don’t be afraid to ask questions. A great childcare center will be transparent, communicative, and eager to show you why they are the best choice for your child. By keeping these tips in mind, you can find a childcare center where your child feels safe, supported, and happy.
P.S. For more tips on finding the best childcare center, watch this video!