When calling a child care provider remember that she is already busy with other children in her care.  Keep the questions  to the minimum of what you need to ask to decide about setting up a personal interview.   What you mostly want to ask on the phone is…..

Is she still doing child care and does she have room for a child in the age group of your child.

You should be sure the provider is in the area in which you need child care.  Especially in large cities where commute time could be lengthened if the provider is not close to your home or work.

Ask the days and hours she is available for care.

If you are looking for part-time or drop-in care inform the provider that it is all you need as she may only take full time children.

If your child has any special needs such as any allergies or fears related to animals or food allergies tell her to be sure she is willing to take a child with those issues.  Any other special needs you feel need to be addressed should be mentioned.

Should your child have any particular personality issues, this is the time to mention it.  An example would be a child who is very shy or takes time to adjust to a new environment.

You can also ask what the fee would be per week/month for your child in care.  Inquire if the provider takes state supplemented child care fees if you are in such a program.

Finding out if the provider is currently licensed by the state is important.

If your child is not toilet trained you might want to also find out if the provider takes children who are not yet out of diapers.

Most other questions should be reserved for the personal face to face interview.  If you feel comfortable with the provider over the phone, set up a date and time for the interview.  Offer your phone number in case the provider needs to call you to make a change.  Arrive on time for the interview as the provider has set aside time to talk with you and if you are late it may interrupt the schedule she has set up for activities with the children in her care.  If for any reason you will not be able to be there for the interview appointment do call the provider and cancel or rearrange another time if you still want to interview her.  Be considerate of her time and do not leave her waiting for you for no reason.  It is a common courtesy that is often forgotten.

I recommend that parents personally interview at least five providers before making a decision about who will care for their child.  Everyone is a little different and you should be able to feel comfortable with one or more providers so that you feel confident to leave your child in their care.  Only make this decision  after seeing the child care environment.

There are many providers working to take good care of the children left with them on a daily basis so parents can go to work and not worry about their children.  You can find one too….