First-time parents may not know what factors they should consider when selecting a day care center for their child. This article discusses some of the important safety issues that such inexperienced parents should investigate before enrolling their child at a day care center.

Adequate Supervision

Infants and toddlers love to explore the world around them. It is very important that such active children should be supervised at all times so that they are not exposed to any dangers. Parents should identify day care centers that have a small supervisor-child ratio, such as 1:4). Such centers provide sufficient supervision to the children that are in their care much better than facilities with a bigger supervisor-child ratio.

Properly Trained Staff

Ask the administrator of the day care center to show you the first aid training certificates of the staff employed at the facility. You should also confirm that the staff have all the certifications that are required by the child care authorities in your area. The website of the education authorities in your area can provide you with information on the necessary certifications.

Prevention of SIDS

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is a serious risk that warrants investigation before you enroll your child at a day care center. Find out what measures the center implements to prevent SIDS at their facility. Appropriate measures may include keeping toys away from cribs, avoidance of soft beddings, and ensuring that toddlers sleep on their backs. Never enroll your child at a day care facility that doesn't have clear guidelines on how children should sleep.

Illness Prevention Policies

The best day care centers always ensure that all the people employed there are current on all applicable vaccinations. The facilities also maintain sanitised tables where the diapers of kids are changed. Toys are also disinfected on a daily basis. Frequent hand-washing is a must for staff and children. Be hesitant to take your child to a day care center where these basic illness prevention practices aren't implemented as a matter of routine.

Safe Play Areas

You should also visit the play area of the day care center. Ensure that the area is clean and free from damaged equipment that can pose a risk to your child. You can also ask the managers for the inspection reports of the play area. That information will show you how seriously they take child safety.

Keep looking until you find a day care center that meets all the requirements in the discussion above. Only then will you be sure that your child is being taken care of in the best possible way while you are away