Seeking advice: Twonky and daycare

[sigerson]

Today I cold-called about twenty local daycare centers (family and group) to ask about availability in January. While I found out some good information and have a few leads, talking with sen_no_ongaku made me realize: We don't know what we're really looking for in a daycare.


We don't know what things are must-haves, what things are nice-to-have but not essential, what things are entirely irrelevant. Distance from home? Accessibility to T? Flexible hours or strict pickup policies? Number of caretakers? Kinds of toys and activities? Hourly rates? Lots of kids or few kids?

So I'm asking the parents out there who have used daycare: What have been the best things and worst things about the place(s) you've used? What is your sine qua non? What things have you really liked but could live without?

I don't expect consensus, of course, nor do I expect to be wanting the same things--but right now, we don't really know where to start. So, internets: any advice?

Comments

[scottahill.livejournal.com]

I've gotta think that daycare for infants is different than daycare for toddlers; if you go searching for advice, make sure you note the distinction. I don't have any experience with the former (I had the luxury of being underemployed when M was a baby), but I would guess that you want the baby to have a lot of physical contact and interaction, not just when they cry. So definitely as few kids as you can afford. A nanny would be ideal, but is expensive of course-- although you could do a mix of daycare and nanny. Not that babies in daycares grow up to be axe murderers or anything, but a baby who feels secure is less likely to develop anxiety issues, and can be more difficult to handle. (This is completely unscientific guesswork on my part, mind you.)

You will be carrying a lot of stuff, including the baby, so by all means make the travel as easy as possible. A baby sling would make the T easier; if you prefer a stroller, check out the nearest T station and imagine hauling a stroller to the platform and onto the train.

[balsamicdragon.livejournal.com]

I think for infants it is really a question of your relationship with the caregiver. I preferred a small family daycare run by just one person who I had a really great relationship with. The critical thing is that you feel comfortable and that your child will be happy and safe. An interview will probably give you a good feel for the person and watching them interact with kids will tell you about their parenting style. I'd highly recommend my daycare provided btw, but as she is in Somerville, it is probably not an option...