Searching for child care? Some tips

Preschools across the region are offering open houses and setting calendars for registration.

But parents always are on the hunt for child care for their kids - whether it's for a yet-to-be-born child or because they've taken on a new job or more responsibilities at work.

Here are steps they recommend that parents follow as they search for schools for their children:

1. Begin as early as possible. Many programs enroll months ahead or have long waiting lists.

2. Visit at least three child care programs and spend at least an hour at each site. Visiting in the afternoon is best for talking to the director; visiting in the morning is best for observing teacher-child interactions.

3. Decide what is important for you and your child. Make a list of what you want to know about the program. Some of these questions might include:

4. Talk with other parents whose children are enrolled in the child care program you are considering.

that you are considering.

6. Visit your favorite program again, without an appointment, and observe at a different time of day.

Once you've picked a school and your child is enrolled, the association urges parents to be involved by volunteering, dropping in and regularly talking with your child's teachers.

From personal experience, as somebody who has sent a child to full-time day care and part-time preschool, I can say that those conversations, experiences and interactions are so rewarding.