How Do I Find a Daycare That Suits My Child's Age and Needs?

The right daycare for a six-month-old infant is different from what suits a three-year-old child, and what suits a social child may not suit a shy child or a child with a speech delay. Therefore, start with your child before you start with daycares.

Know your child's needs first

Form a clear picture of their level in language, motor, and social skills. A quick developmental screening conducted from home reveals their strengths and where they might need additional support, so you know exactly what to look for, and even reach nearby daycares from the very same place.

Match the daycare to the age

• Infants (up to 12 months): a low child-to-caregiver ratio, a consistent caregiver to bond with, and respect for sleep and feeding routines.
• Toddlers (1–3 years): a safe space for movement and exploration, plenty of language activities, and patience with the independence stage and temper tantrums.
• Preschool (3–6 years): a program that combines play with school-readiness skills and peer interaction.

Match it to the needs

If your child has a developmental delay or a diagnosis, ask: Do you have experience with similar children? Do you allow a shadow teacher or visits from a specialist? Do you collaborate in implementing their plan's goals?

Narrow down the options, then visit

Start with daycares near home or work, then compare at least three of them through visits and observation.

For practitioners:When you refer a child to a daycare, provide the family with a brief summary of their needs to share with the caregivers, as this facilitates their inclusion from day one.

Originally published in Arabic. This English version was produced with AI-assisted translation; the Arabic original remains the reference.