Selecting the best care provider for your child in Berea Ohio presents a huge challenge as it is one of the most serious decisions parents make for their children and Berea has many to choose from.

The role parents play in their children's lives is of utmost importance but the child's relationship with daycare providers can also have a profound effect on the child's self image and perception of the world.

Caregivers who provide warm, responsive care to children create an important sense of safety and security. Parents who are confident with the quality of care their children are receiving can feel comfortable returning to their work schedules and performance demands.

The environment of the daycare setting should be clean, safe and secure as well as welcoming to children and their families. The opportunity to visit the childcare site at anytime whether announced or unannounced can give parents peace of mind that their children are safe and receiving professional, compassionate care.

Beware of any day care provider unwilling to permit visitation throughout the child's stay. An open door policy to parents is a must but at the same time proper security clearance of all visitors is very important. No one should ever be able to visit or remove a child without the parents permission.

Meals provided for children should be planned, menus available for parents and of course the meals need to be nutritious and inviting to the children. If parents are to supply the meals, question caregivers about proper storage of food items. The times and procedures for assisting the children with meals and snacks should also be clearly explained.

Children will become ill on occasion. Each care provider should have a policy in place for caring for the sick child and attempting to keep others from being exposed. It is important to inquire about the availability of first aid supplies and planning. Providers need to be currently trained in first aid and CPR.

The environment should provide comfort and intellectual stimulation for the children of any age. Age appropriate toys and materials need to be provided and children need to be well supervised in all activities.

Are there scheduled rest periods for children and what accommodations are there for napping? Also important are length of time and schedule for napping or rest times. Is there flexibility incorporated into the daily schedule to meet individual children's special needs as they might arise?

Question childcare providers about their child rearing and early childhood education philosophy and see if it fits with your thoughts in these areas.