Searching for a reliable child care facility can be a difficult process if you aren't certain where to start. In the San Antonio area alone, there are a number of different day care centers that frequently have openings for children anywhere from infancy age to pre-school age. Rather than simply selecting a random child care center out of the blue, it is important to do your research and know exactly what you should be looking for when it comes to providing your child with the utmost safety in a friendly, clean and educational environment. Take advantage of the following tips to find the best day care for your child:

Good Reputation

One of the first things that you will want to look for in a day care center is whether or not they have a good reputation with previous and current families who have their children enrolled there. Ask around to see if friends and family can recommend a facility in your area and how pleased they are with the teachers, classroom and daily educational activities. A good child care center should have an inviting, friendly and nurturing atmosphere. The overall reputation of the center can really say a lot about it as a whole and if it is right for your wants and needs.

Stimulating Curriculum

Another thing that you should look for in finding the best day care for your child is whether or not they have a stimulating curriculum. While some child care centers are simply themed around play throughout the day and act more as a babysitting service, other centers offer educational lessons and activities that will keep children engaged and learning throughout the day. The facility should have a structured schedule that includes group programs such as circle time, individual activities, outdoor time, meals, snacks and quiet time or nap time. You will also want to be sure to look at the classrooms to ensure that they have a wide range of educational toys that are age-appropriate. You will want the center to encourage your child's overall development, imagination and creative side while preparing them for kindergarten.

Qualified Staff

One of the most important factors that will determine if whether a day care is the best choice for your child is to ensure that they have well qualified and trained staff members in all classrooms. Employees should be well educated and have training in CPR as well as first aid. In addition, caregivers should be responsible, friendly and caring towards all children in the class. Make sure that the center has enough staff members to efficiently accommodate legal ratios of adults to children for specified age ranges. By taking all of these tips into consideration, you will be on your way to finding the very best day care in San Antonio.