Questions to ask about FDC

[JLeigh29]

I am looking at FDC for DS for 2 days a week next year. I am waiting to have some meet ups with educators/carers.

What questions should I be asking? The carer to child ratio is set, I know about pools, pets, visitors, outings etc but what questions do I ask to find out about their philosophy of child raising and how they will treat/interact/encourage my child? I don't want to just ask really general questions, as it's easy to gloss over stuff.

And what kinds of things should I be looking for when I go? Aside from the obvious - how they treat DS, their general manner etc.

TIA

[Maruschke]

How about... what would you do if DS did xyz? What if another child did xyz to my DS? How do you deal with biting, fighting, bullying (well he is too young for that I guess)... how do you discipline them and what would you do if they were in some way naughty? Etc etc.

[meow]

I would ask what made them want to do FDC and try to get into a discussion about the career, children etc and see if you connect with the things they say.

I'd also ask about behaviour guidance and find out what sort of things they find appropriate/inappropriate and how they would respond. How do the answers make you feel.

Turn your mummy instincts on and listen to them

[teresa]

definately listen to mummy instincts. just ask about whether they will incorporate what you do at home for your child at their fdc, meals etc. we found a fantastic carer who DS just adores. unfortunately we are moving at the end of the year and she is giving up too. i did ask for her to move with us but she said no

can u observe her interactions with other kids? i found that helpful when choosing someone.

good luck

[JLeigh29]

Thanks ladies, some great questions. I will definitely be listening to my mummy instincts too! DS is the one the other kids will take things off, grab or push, and it will make him absolutely hysterical. He's not into being touched by other kids, or even having them come near him a lot of the time. So knowing how a carer will deal with that is important. He doesn't play very independently and loves to be held and 'looked after' though, so I am also looking for someone who 'enjoys' having him tag along with everything they do (even going to the loo) and will actively play with him. At the same time, I also want someone who will help him become more independent and resilient with other kids.