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Options for Working Parents
Options for Working Parents is a non-profit program of the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce committed to addressing child care concerns and assisting employers, parents, providers of service, and the community in meeting those concerns. For more information, call 401-946-2300.
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Information About Choosing and Evaluating Childcare Providers
Choosing a good childcare provider is a difficult task for most parents, especially if it is your first child and not yet talking.

Here are a few things to look for when making your decision about who will be caring for your child when you are not available:
1. Visit the childcare provider several times before making your decision. Go during different times of the day to see all phases of the childcare.
2. Watch the children. Are they happy, involved in activities, and getting attention and hugs from the provider?
3. Does the provider get down on the floor and play with the children? Does she talk with the children often?
4. Is there artwork on the walls at "kid level?" Are there enough toys, books, and chairs for all the children?
5. Are there safe outdoor play areas?
6. Is the environment clean, bright, and well maintained?
7. Trust your feelings when visiting a childcare. Keep looking until you feel comfortable and secure with the environment and provider.
After you have a found a childcare provider that you feel comfortable with, there are some things that you can do as a parent to keep a good relationship with that provider:
1. Arrive on time to pick up your child. If you are running late, call your provider to let them know when you will arrive.
2. Pay on time. Your childcare provider may have a policy about late fees for late payment, but, in addition to the fees, paying late is something that could cause problems in your relationship to your provider.
3. Keep your provider informed about changes in your child's life that may affect his attitude or behavior at school.