Choosing childcare: checklist for parents

A handy guide to doing your research and choosing the right care for your child...

• Plan ahead (at least six months) for your child's care - there is often a waiting-list for more popular settings, or in certain parts of the borough
• Get a list of childcare providers for the area you live or work in from us on 020 8430 2000
• Decide which type of provision will best meet your needs
• If you're not sure, why not contact your local children's centre and speak to the family support worker who can help you with your choice? Find your nearest children's centre here.
• Contact several providers (so you can make a choice) and arrange to visit them with your child. Ask to stay for a whole session, and don't be afraid to visit more than once if you are unsure. Check: am I welcome to come in at any time?
• You can also read the provider's latest inspection report if you want more detailed information - ask the provider for a copy or check on the Ofsted website
• Decide what you want from your childcare provider, go with a list of things to look for and questions to ask. Talk to staff about your child's particular needs
• Look at the environment - is it light and warm? Clean and safe? Is there a safe outdoor play area? Make sure the equipment is good quality, clean and suitable for your child's needs
• Watch and listen. Make sure you are happy with the way the provider looks after the children and deals with parents - the atmosphere, children and staff should be happy, relaxed and confident
• Ask and observe what meals / snacks / drinks the children are given. Is there a healthy menu which is displayed?
• Discuss how the provider deals with different issues (such as settling your child in when they first start, first aid, dietary needs or behaviour issues) and ask to see their written policies. Make sure you are happy with them
• You can ask about staff qualifications and what training they have completed
• You can ask to see programmes of activities and evidence of children's learning and experiences
• Try to speak to other parents about their experiences of the childcare provider
• Before your child takes up a place with a childcare provider, make sure you sign an agreement which states what you and they expect, and tells you how to raise any concerns or make a complaint if you need to. Read this carefully and make sure any particular arrangements for your child are included.