Parenting – Find The Right Crèche

Six effective ways to screen childcare facilities

Every parent wants to be sure their child is well-taken care of while they are at work. And while finances determine the quality of childcare available to parents, finding the right place for your child is crucial.

A crèche or preschool plays a critical and vital role in the development of our children’s potential. Educational psychologist, Dr Joseph Seabi says, “A crèche should be structured to encourage cognitive, emotional, educational, and social development from early childhood.” This is why it’s important to ensure that we send our kids to safe, nurturing environments where their welfare, learning and protection are a priority.

The recent viral video of a preschool teacher beating up a little girl for vomiting shows that some teachers are not fit to be in the positions they hold.

It’s a wakeup call to parents to not trust too easily, and to be meticulous in screening the places we send our little ones. It’s on us to check if teachers have no criminal records, are mentally stable and aren’t a danger to children.

Here’s how to effectively evaluate childcare facilities and what you should never, ever, compromise on. CHECK THE LEGITIMACY OF THE CRÈCHE Verify that the preschool is registered with the departments of basic education, health and social services, and if they have a licence to operate. This ensures that it’s genuine and legitimate. “The registration implies that representatives from these departments can do spontaneous visits to inspect the facilities and make sure that they comply with the law,” Seabi explains.

TEACHING AND TRAINING

A good crèche or preschool will usually invite parents to get to know the school while deciding on enrolment. But it’s also up to you as the parent to take the initiative, or if offered the opportunity, to use it to be direct with your inquisition.

“Make an appointment with the crèche and have a conversation with those in charge,” advises educational psychologist, Dr Mubi Mavuso. “Ask about the school’s policy, and discuss it thoroughly,” she adds.

“Ask about the qualifications and experience of teachers, and the curriculum. Find out if the school empowers its teachers about early childhood learning and development matters by, for example, organising or attending workshops to upgrade themselves educationally,” Mavuso continues.

“Also, ask how the school embraces inclusivity, and how it accommodates children who learn differently or have disabilities,” she adds.

Seabi points out that although there is a growing trend among parents who want their children to speak English as a first language, it’s crucial that educators or caretakers be able to speak in the mother tongue of children, where possible.

ATTEND OPEN DAYS

Attending the open day allows you to observe the exchange between teachers and parents, how children relate to each other, and how teachers connect with their charges.

“It’s important to take note of what you like, dislike or what makes you uncomfortable. As a parent, you need to listen to your gut feeling and act on them. You can communicate your findings to the crèche management and then note how they react,” Mavuso adds.

“It’s also imperative to note how you as a parent, and the children, are treated. Watch the drop-offs, and notice the children’s reactions and interactions with their teachers. If possible, do this during playtime. We should never compromise on the safety and well-being of our children. We must guard and be vigilant against child abuse,” she emphasises.

INSPECT THE SAFETY AND SECURITY STANDARDS

Basic hygiene is of paramount importance. “Unhealthy environments are a risk to normal child development,” Mavuso says.

There are many other concerns to be on the lookout for. Seabi recommends having a detailed checklist for safety and security.

“Ask the following: are the buildings, equipment and furniture in a good condition? Is the area hygienic? Are the toys cleaned regularly? Do the operational hours accommodate parents who work the whole day? Is the facility open during school holidays? Are the entry and exit gates closely monitored to ensure only those authorised people are permitted on the premises? Are the gates locked during the day? Are there rules in place and followed through to ensure only parents or guardians on the pick-up list can fetch children? Is there proper space for all the children to be able to play safely? Is the food nutritious? Are some of the educators trained in first aid?” Seabi notes.

EXAMINE THE CURRICULUM OF THE CRÈCHE

Experts agree that it’s critical that

you understand the educational programme on offer, and how it addresses the developmental needs of your child. According to Seabi, depending on the kid’s age, parents can request to see lesson plans or basic educational programmes – don’t feel it’s an inconvenience to ask to see it.

TALK TO OTHER PARENTS AND WATCH YOUR CHILD

Get references about the crèche from other parents. “Talk to parents, and those who’ve withdrawn their children. Ask their opinion about the crèche. Join a parent WhatsApp group and other feasible communication platforms to see what people say about the school,” Mavuso advises.

“It’s recommended that you take your child to the crèche and notice how he or she responds to the new environment that will become their second home,” Seabi adds.