Child care providers in Nebraska

Midwest Child Care Association can help you find the right child care provider for you. Search our database of child care providers to find important information about schedules, location, and more.

Being A Good Child Care Parent

Based on the article by Stephanie Dunnewind of the Seattle Times

Child drop off protocol:

Give your child time to adjust to child care and then leave; don't drag out leave-taking. Parents can set a positive tone for the rest of the day by taking five minutes in the morning to greet the caregiver and help involve the child in an activity. They should neither 'drop and run' nor on the other hand, linger after saying goodbye. Delaying will encourage the child to think crying will make the parent stay. Instead, try to leave without much fuss and then if you are concerned about how your child is adjusting, call during the day to get an update on how your child is doing.

Value your provider and show respect and courtesy.

Providers are more than just babysitters. Many providers have education degrees or training in early childhood development. Show respect for their position as an important part of your child's development. Every once in a while, a sincere thank-you note or a little something can help make the provider feel appreciated.

Focus on your child when you pick him/her up.

Take time to greet the provider and your child and see if there is anything the caregiver wishes to communicate before you leave.

Pay your bill or fees on time.

Don't put providers in the position of begging or threatening before you write a check for child care. Even if your child is sick or the family is on vacation the provider may require to be paid in order to hold the slot for your child.

Find out the provider's policy before sending in personal items.

Some providers only allow children to bring items on special days. Support your provider's rules. Children do understand that rules may differ at home and at day care, and they may have to leave a favorite toy at home.

Make sure that your child is wearing appropriate clothing.

Children will get dirty in child care. Understand that your provider is caring for several children at once and clothes should come off and go on easily. Make sure all clothes are tagged with children's names. Use a permanent ink pen to mark the clothes, including socks, with their initials.

Keep a sick child home.

The state, not just providers, mandates health rules to prevent spread of infectious illnesses. Though it may seem inconvenient at times, remember that these rules keep your child from being infected by other kids as well. If missing work is not an option, parents need a backup child care plan with a relative or friend to provide care in case of illness. If your child has been sick it is helpful for parents to give child care providers a heads-up morning phone call.

The program may be open 12 hours per day, but try to minimize your child's time in day care.

Most children have had a full day after 8 hours, and need to re-fuel emotionally by spending time with their families.

Communicate with providers.

About what's going on at home, including social, emotional or developmental changes.

Pick children up at your scheduled time.

Providers want to be with their family too.

Make sure children get a good night's rest so they are ready for their busy day.

Address concerns when they happen, but not in front of children.