Childcare

Common questions regarding childcare include:

• What is the staff to child ratio in the centre (how many children does one staff member care for)?
• Will my child be happy and well cared for?
• What sort of interactions will my child have with the carer?
• Will my child resent me not being there for them 24/7?
• Can I call in any time unannounced and will I be made to feel welcome?
• What childcare qualifications/skills does the carer possess?
• What are the health policies for this childcare centre and are they adhered to?
• What facilities and resources are available to help my child develop socially, creatively and developmentally?
• If something goes wrong while they are in care will I be contacted immediately?
• Will they feed expressed breastmilk?

So how do you make the decision?

• Referrals - whatever childcare you are considering, referrals from friends and co-workers are the first and most reliable method
• Visits - take your child with you to visit childcare providers in your area
• Spend time watching how the staff interact with the children
• Enquire about the routines and educational programme they have in place

The childcare decision is never an easy one. Whoever you choose to care for your child, you must feel totally comfortable with your decision. This website may be useful to you as you go through the process of choosing which type of care would be best suited to your needs - www.careforkids.co.nz.

What about the cost of childcare? 

Childcare can be very expensive. Check out our financial support tab and make sure you know what entitlements you may claim.