From birth until your child is two, they are developing faster than at any other point in their life. Not only are they learning how to use the potty, they are figuring out how to communicate with you using language, they are building their physical ability to crawl, walk, run and play. They are better able to understand the world around them and the people in it, how they feel and how they ought to respond in a social situation. Everything they are learning is going to contribute to their overall wellbeing for the rest of their lives. Give your child the upper hand in life with these simple day care tips.
Nutrition
First and foremost, you must take your child’s nutrition into account. In order to grow strong bodies, they must have a healthy diet. Decide from the beginning whether or not you’re going to breastfeed. Breastfeeding is suggested to be the healthiest way to feed your child but there are alternatives to explore such as formula.
Another thing to consider is when your child goes into daycare, open communication and find out if the establishment are capable of feeding your child the way you do. Check with your daycare on their policies and how much they allow your child to eat. Ask them if they provide drinks at their daycare and how often. What kind of milk, water and juice do they offer? Will they continue to teach your child about healthy eating habits while you are gone?
Finally, if your child is ever too tired to eat, how will the day care handle their resistance? Will they bribe them to try new foods or will they force them to eat? Decide what you would like to have happen at your chosen daycare before you ask them these questions. Then you will be better prepared to find a daycare that really works for you and your child’s needs.
Safety
You have taken the time to learn CPR and first aid for your child. You know all of their allergies and how to handle their reactions. Before you chose a daycare, ask them if they are CPR certified and first aid trained. Make sure they know how to respond to your child’s allergies. Finally, get a clear impression of how they handle discipline. If your child acts out, how will they restrain them and keep them from acting out in the future? It is important you feel comfortable with their disciplinary practices.
Emotional Development
As for your child’s emotional development, collaborate with their daycare or teachers to monitor their progress. Between one and two years old, they should know their own name, be comfortable being with or without adult supervision, watch other children play, take pride in their accomplishments, try to play with other children and reflect social habits back.
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