Belcourt Site
2140 Belcourt Ave
Nashville, TN 37232-8185
(615) 936-1990
6 a.m.-6 p.m.

Edgehill Site
Stallworth Building
Box 89, Peabody Station
Nashville, TN 37203
(615) 322-8076
6 a.m.-6 p.m.

18th Avenue Site
1105 18th Avenue South
Nashville TN 37203
(615) 322-5332
6 a.m.-6 p.m.

Making Child Care Choices

What's Available?

Choosing a childcare setting can be one of the most challenging experiences a parent faces. Often times there are waiting lists, especially for younger children. When possible it is best to start visiting programs in advance of when you need care and to place your name on more than one waiting list.

In Tennessee there are a few types of regulated programs.

1. Registered Homes (not required to be licensed)
   Childcare is provided in someone's home and the enrollment is 4 or less.
2. Family Homes
   An in-home setting that is licensed to care for 5 -7 children.
3. Group Homes
   An in-home setting that is licensed for 8 -12 children.
4. Child Care Center
   Childcare centers are programs licensed for 13 or more children are found in a variety of locations including community centers, churches, work sites, and schools.
5. Summer School-age Care
   It is best to start planning for summer care in February and March. Many organizations offer camp fairs. Networking with friends, neighbors, and co-workers can be a good start.

It is best to visit a variety of programs in order to determine what is the best fit for you and your child. You may obtain a listing of programs from the Tennessee Department of Human Services Web site or by calling their Child Care Resource and Referral office at 313-4820 or 1-800-462-8261.

Visiting the programs

After you have identified potential childcare settings, it is time to schedule a visit. Call to set up an appointment in advance. Mornings are usually the best time to schedule a tour in order to observe classroom activities and teacher-child interactions. Observation is key to making the best choice. Ask what a typical day will include.

• Outside play
• Dramatic/make-believe play
• Meals and snacks
• Art activities
• Block play
• Music, math, science activities
• Language development/story time

What are the group sizes and ratios?
Studies have indicated that group size has the most positive effect on the behavior and development of young children.

Is the program licensed? Is the program accredited? If so, by whom?

How long have the teachers worked at the program and what are their qualifications?

What are the program's hours of operation and is the program ever closed?

What are the program's sick child policies, including the giving of medications?

Are there daily report forms and other forms of communication?

How much time is spent watching television or videos?

How are field trips handled?

The most important factor to consider is how you feel about the program. While the questions can provide you with important information, you need to be a thoughtful observer during your tour.

• Do the children seem happy?
• Does the caregiver use positive language?
• Does there seem to be sufficient equipment and supplies?
• Is the facility clean?
• Are schedules and lesson plans posted?
• Are menus posted?
• Do the teachers sit with the children on their level?
• Is the environment (furnishings, toys) appropriate for the age group?
• Are the children involved in activities or with an adult?
• Where do the children rest or nap?

Starting Childcare

Once the decision has been made, it is time to make the transition to the program. Prior to your child's actual first day, it is best to schedule several visits. For older children this gives them a point of reference when you discuss his or her new school. For infants and toddlers, it allows time to get to know the caregivers and share important information.

Be friendly with the teacher/caregiver. Talk with them and share necessary information. If your child sees that you trust and like the caregiver, he or she will feel more comfortable and secure.

Establish a routine when saying good-bye. Try not to be rushed a drop-off time. Help your child get settled in the classroom and tell them that you will be coming back. Do not try to slip out without saying good-bye. Once you have decided to leave, leave. Coming back in or lingering after saying good-bye send a mixed message to your child and can make the transition more difficult.

If your child is upset, let them know that you understand and let them know that it is okay.

Some children may adjust quickly while others may take longer to become secure and to adjust to the new routines. Others may seem to adjust quickly but become upset a few weeks or months after enrolling.

Talk to the caregivers/teachers about what they would suggest. Can the child bring in a favorite toy or sleep toy? Could a family photo be brought in?

Once your child has adjusted, please remember that there may be other time when transitioning into the classroom may be difficult. Your child may need your help after vacations, after very active weekends, after visiting relatives or friends leave, or when moving to a new classroom.

The best approach is to have good communication with the classroom teachers/caregivers and with the program director.

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