When Should You Start Looking for Daycare?

Finding the right daycare for your child is an important decision that requires time,

planning, and research. While it may seem like a task you can leave until later, starting the

process early ensures you have enough time to make an informed choice. In this blog

post, we’ll answer some key questions to help you understand when to start looking for

daycare, what to consider, and how to plan ahead.

How Early Should You Start Looking for Daycare?

Ideally, you should start looking for daycare 6 to 12 months before you need it. Many high-

quality daycare centers have long waitlists, especially in areas with limited availability.

Starting early gives you more time to tour centers, compare options, and get a spot at

your preferred facility. For parents returning to work after maternity or paternity leave, this

early preparation can be crucial.

If you're planning to have your child in daycare after maternity leave, make sure to begin

the process while you’re still pregnant or at least several months before your return date.

This way, you won't be caught off guard when it’s time to start childcare.

For more information on daycare programs for older children, check out this school-age

program at B&J Daycare.

What is the Best Age to Start Daycare Research?

The best time to start researching daycare is when you’re still pregnant or early in your

child’s first year. The earlier you begin your search, the more time you’ll have to find a

facility that matches your values and offers the right environment for your child.

Keep in mind that different daycare centers cater to different age groups. For example,

some daycare providers may specialize in infants and toddlers, while others focus more

on preschool or school-age children. Starting your research early ensures you have

options that fit your child’s developmental stage.

How Far in Advance Should You Be on a Daycare Waitlist?

Daycare waitlists can be long, especially for highly sought-after programs. It’s

recommended to get on a daycare waitlist as soon as possible, even before your baby is

born, if possible. Many parents start contacting daycare centers when they’re around 20

weeks pregnant to get their name on the list.

Some daycare centers may allow you to join a waitlist as early as 6 to 12 months in

advance, but it’s important to note that each facility operates differently. Call ahead to

inquire about waitlist policies, and make sure to confirm your placement several months

before your child’s start date.

What Age Do Daycares Start Hiring?

Most daycares begin hiring staff members who are at least 18 years old. However, many

daycare centers look for employees with experience or certifications in early childhood

education (ECE). Some centers may also require staff to have CPR and first aid

certifications, along with background checks.

If you're looking for daycare jobs, check the specific requirements of each center you're

interested in. Some daycares may hire younger staff members for assistant roles, while

others require a minimum age or specific qualifications for teaching positions.

Tips for Choosing the Right Daycare

Finding the right daycare involves more than just timing. Here are some tips to help you

choose the best daycare for your child:

1. Visit multiple daycare centers – Don’t settle for the first center you visit. Take the time

   to tour several options to get a feel for the environment, staff, and overall culture of

   the center.
   

2. Consider location and convenience – Choose a daycare that’s close to home or work

   to make drop-offs and pick-ups easier for you and your child.
   

3. Ask about the caregiver-to-child ratio – A lower caregiver-to-child ratio ensures

   more personalized attention and better supervision.
   

4. Look for a clean, safe, and welcoming environment – Check for safety measures

   such as gated areas, clean facilities, and child-proofing to ensure your child’s well-

   being.

5. Check for accreditations and licenses – Make sure the daycare center is properly

licensed and meets the required state standards for childcare.

By starting your search early and considering all these factors, you can ensure a smooth

transition for both you and your child when it’s time to begin daycare.