Narrowing your search

When you start looking for child care, narrow down your selection by considering practical issues as well as your child's needs.

• Do you need part-time or full-time child care?
• What days of the week do you need child care? Are the days always the same, or do they change?
• During what hours do you need child care (include your travel time if appropriate)?
• What are you willing to spend each month for child care? Keep in mind that well-paid caregivers are less likely to quit.
• What is your child's age? What behavior is expected of children that are your child's age? What are some ways you can involve a school-age child in deciding about the best type of care?
• How would you describe your child's personality? Does he or she have any special interests? Do you think your child will do best in a small or large group of children?
• Does your child have any lifelong conditions (such as diabetes) or special needs?

Selecting an individual care provider

If you are looking for an in-home child care provider, have a clear idea about what type of person you are looking for. It may be helpful to do the following:

• Write down the qualities you want in a caregiver, such as educational background and experience.
• Look for hidden costs.
• If you are considering having a relative or family friend watch your child, think about how the arrangement could affect your relationship.

There are two basic ways to locate an individual child care provider:

• Advertise. Talk with your neighbors and friends about the kind of person you are looking for. Post an advertisement in places where people in your community look for jobs or services, such as newspapers, local colleges, churches, or community bulletin boards. Make it clear what you need: number of days each week, provider to live with you (or not), any requirements or special needs, and how to contact you.
• Use an agency. Some organizations will help you find appropriate individual child care. Many nannies and most au pairs are hired with agency help.

Screening potential providers is essential. Use a telephone interview for the initial screening, and explain your needs in detail. Then ask questions such as:

• Do you have any questions about our needs?
• What kinds of related experience do you have? (Be specific. For example, if you prefer vegetarian meals, ask, "How would you rate your cooking abilities?" and "Have you ever cooked vegetarian meals?")
• What concerns or questions do you have for me?
• Who are 3 people I can call for references?

When you have narrowed down your selection, conduct a personal interview with each of your top choices. Allow enough time for the applicant to answer and ask questions and to be introduced to your child.