How to find a good daycare...

We are thinking that we are going to start putting the boys in daycare for a little bit after the new baby comes. Probably only 2-3 days a week for half days I think. However, since we just moved here I have NO idea where to start looking for someone. Any ideas? I am very apprehensive about this so any help/suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

We also thought about trying to find a nanny that would come into the house instead for only 2-3 days/week...any thoughts on this idea? I like the idea of the boys being able to socialize with other kiddos but like I said I am a little apprehensive about taking them to someone else's house/somewhere else.

Let me know what you think and/or if you have any advice!

Thanks,
Megan

 

Megan, do you have a local Mother of Twins club you could tap for resources? Just a thought.

I'm sure SOMEONE here has searched for daycare and can tell you HOW they found it! :hug99: Good luck with the rest of your pregnancy!

 

In ND we have a Childcare Resources and Referral. You tell them what you are looking for and they search their database. Do you guys have one?

Tiffaney

 

Try to find the licensing agency and ask them for a referral. They will tell you which ones they've had complaints against. Also, just check out several of them yourself. Don't call first, just drop in for a visit. If you call first, they're prepared for you and may be able to "cover" any problems. Go with your gut feelings. If it doesn't feel right, don't do it. Also, be sure to ask them for references. I visited several with both my son and my twins and there were some I just knew right away I wouldn't use. Word of mouth is HUGE! If you can contact some local churches, doctor's offices, etc. there are usually plenty of working moms who can refer you to a good place! There are also some good checklists on-line if you'll just do a Google search. They will tell you what to look for and questions to ask.

I have used both a nanny (with my son) and daycares. Just my opinion, but I recommend a daycare. I loved the idea of someone staying in my home with them, BUT she wasn't near as dependable as a daycare is. Also, the socialization factor is a BIGGIE! I am currently a SAHM, but I'm going to put the twins in a 2-day per week preschool starting in the fall just to get them used to being around other kiddos.

HTH, Good luck!! It's not an easy decision to make.