Don’t be shy about checking references.  Selecting a caregiver for your child is one of the most important things you will ever do.  Ask each caregiver for at least two parent references and their phone numbers.  Most parents are happy to share information with other parents and can be a wonderful resource.  Parents who check references say they often get information they couldn’t have gathered any other way.  Also, you can request the licensing compliance history from the Child Care Licensing Officer for your county.

Prepare your children by talking positively about the new child care situation and by letting them visit the place beforehand.  Ask your new caregiver if it would be OK for your child to bring a favorite toy, teddy bear, or blanket to help ease the transition.