Finding the Right Daycare: Your Checklist for Quality Childcare

As parents, few decisions are as important, or as emotionally complex, as finding the right daycare for your child. Whether you’re returning to work, looking to socialise your little one, or simply need additional support, choosing the right environment is critical in shaping your child’s early development.

Let’s walk you through everything you need to know when it comes to choosing the right daycare that supports your child’s learning, safety, and happiness.

When to Start Looking for Infant Daycare?

The best time to start looking for the right daycare for your infant is before your maternity leave ends. Most of them tend to have limited seats and waiting lists, especially in urban areas. Planning early ensures that you can explore your options, schedule visits, ask questions, and assess which environment feels right, not just logistically, but emotionally as well. Also, this gives you ample time to think about this new transition for your child as you step into the next chapter.

What Age is Good to Put Your Child in Daycare?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to this question. In India, most daycare centres will start taking kids from the age of 6 months to upto 10 years or more.

But when you think about it, age isn’t the only deciding factor for daycare admissions. Other factors also play a significant role, such as signs of routine adaptation, sleep schedule stability, and emotional bonding.

Types of Infant Childcare Options in India

Before choosing a childcare centre, it’s worth understanding the types of care available in India and what each of these childcare centres has to offer:

1. Daycare Centres

   Daycare centres in India offer structured programmes for different age groups, right from infants to preschoolers. These centres are often licensed, follow a defined curriculum, and employ trained professionals to offer a balanced mix of care, education, playtime, and routine.

2. Family Child Care

   This type of childcare takes place in the caregiver’s home, rather than in a dedicated daycare centre. These are smaller setups with a home-like environment and often have a smaller group size with more flexible timings. While they may offer a comforting environment, it’s essential to ensure that safety standards and hygiene aren’t compromised.

3. In-Home Childcare (Nanny Services)

   An in-home childcare service is ideal for parents who want personalised care for their child within their familiar environment. Such services provide nannies to take care of the child. Nannies either live-in with the family to provide 24/7 care or commute daily according to a set schedule.

Checklist for Choosing the Right Childcare Centre

As a parent on the hunt for the perfect daycare, you may find yourself wondering: “What should I look for in a daycare centre?” Here’s a quick and reliable daycare checklist to guide your decision:

• Location and Hours of Operation: Choose a daycare that’s close to home or work, with timings that match your schedule. Flexibility in pick-up/drop-off is a big bonus.
• Safety and Security Measures: CCTV surveillance, biometric access, and trained emergency staff aren’t optional anymore; they’re essential.
• Staff Qualifications and Experience: Look for trained educators with experience in early childhood care. Ask about certifications, training, and teacher-child interaction style.
• Curriculum and Educational Approach: Is it play-based, Montessori, or activity-led? A well-structured curriculum aligned with your child’s developmental stage is key when choosing a childcare centre.
• Cost: A quality daycare is an investment, not an expense. However, it should fit your budget. Check what’s included in the fee structure: meals, activities, extended hours, and more.
• Adult-Child Ratio: A lower ratio means more personal attention. For infants, a 1:3 ratio is ideal.
• Hygiene: From sanitised toys to clean bedding, hygiene speaks volumes about a centre’s commitment to your child’s well-being.
• Healthy Meals: Check whether the centre provides balanced, nutritious meals prepared under a dietitian’s guidance.
• Activities: Enrichment activities such as art, storytelling, music, and outdoor play are crucial for holistic development.
• Nap Time: A predictable routine with clean, comfortable sleep areas ensures your child’s emotional and physical rest.
• Outside Time: Nature walks, outdoor games, and time in fresh air help improve motor skills and reduce screen dependence.

Questions to Ask When Choosing a Daycare

When visiting a potential daycare, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Here are some insightful ones:

• What type of curriculum do you follow?
• What activities are offered daily/weekly?
• Is there a transport facility?
• Are you licensed and accredited?
• Do you track vaccination schedules?
• How do you keep parents informed?
• Can I participate in or observe my child’s daily activities?
• What’s the adult-child ratio and total capacity?
• What qualifications do the staff hold?
• How do you manage children’s routines?
• Do you provide meals, snacks, nappies, and other essentials?

These questions form part of a strong daycare checklist and give you clarity about the environment you’re trusting with your child.

Why is KLAY Daycare the Best Choice for Your Child?

At KLAY Preschools and Daycare, we understand that these early years aren’t just about play. They are also about laying the foundation of your child’s future. Each interaction, activity, and nurturing moment contributes to developing cognitive and social-emotional intelligence.

Here’s what makes KLAY the leader in daycare services in India:

• Tailored Curriculum: Our daycare programme is designed with age-appropriate learning goals and an activity-based approach.
• Stimulating Environment: Thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor play areas, along with a cosy reading corner, foster curiosity and creativity.
• Uncompromised Safety & Hygiene: Our centres are monitored round-the-clock and adhere to global safety and hygiene protocols.
• Balanced Nutrition: All meals and snacks are prepared in-house under the supervision of early-years nutritionists, ensuring every bite counts.

Whether you’re returning to work or looking for a nurturing space that supports your child’s development, KLAY is your trusted partner in finding the right daycare.