Daycare centre tips

• Visit potential centres; this way you get to meet the staff, ask about daily routines and see the environment for yourself

• Inquire about the nutritional and health and safety practices

• Ask if the centre offers a sibling or additional-child discount

• Wait lists can be months long. It’s often recommended to get on a list during pregnancy, especially if you live in an urban centre

• Check provincial standards; most centres must be licensed to operate

• Check if government subsidy is available at prospective centres

• Prices listed mainly apply to the school year; ask if fees change during summer months and holidays

• If your child is sick, most daycares request you keep her at home - at your expense

• Some centres offer transportation included in fees, but be sure to ask if it's not listed

Tips when choosing a home-care child care

• Home-cares providers may be flexible with drop-off and pickup times

• Licensed caregivers are screened, approved and monitored by home-care agencies

• Be diligent about the type of care you would like your child to receive by voicing your concerns and interests to the caregiver

• Home-care daycares often offer smaller group sizes and a homey environment, which may be a better fit for some children

Tips on hiring a nanny

• Pay should be no less than provincial minimum wage and may depend on nanny's experience, education, number of children and if cleaning duties are involved

• You can find nannies through word of mouth or advertising, or enlist in the help of an agency that screens candidates

• Choose a nanny that is a good fit with your family's philosophies and needs

• Foreign nannies may only begin working with your family once they have their visa and work permits issued by the Government of Canada

• The hiring process can take anywhere from two to six months, so plan early

• Look at a candidate's level of experience and education; more-experienced nannies often have higher rates