How Did You Find Yourr Daycare Provider?

The state office will have a list of licensed child care places. They will give you a copy, they may also have one on-line at the state site.

Here is the link:

https://ccmis.dhs.state.ia.us/ClientPortal/ProviderSearch...

I talked to our neighbors and to quite a few people at our church. I was looking for a daycare center, so I made appointments to visit the ones close to our house.

There was a time I was looking for in-home, as I needed part time. We have an organization called Community Child Care Connection. I called them, and they sent a list of in-home providers in my area that were DCFS certified. Again, i called a few and made appointments to visit.

You could also call your local elementary school, as they often have a list of providers for after school care. Many of them also do full-time care.

If you don't get enough information here or you don't have time to comb through the numerous programs listed on the licensing website, check out your local child care resource & referral agency.
They are typically low to no cost, you call in and tell them what you want for child care (in - home, curriculum, near your work?? Whatever you want) and they find 5 -7 licensed care providers who meet your needs for you to check out. They are non-profit, no commission structure, they have no skin in game.
Google NAACCRRA and then narrow by your state, etc.
I LOVE this service!!
they also give you great check lists and tips on how to identify QUALITY child care.
Best of luck on your search.

I asked my coworkers pro and con on local centers and providers.

Try www.cribsters.com - they have tons of listings nationwide. You can search by zip code and there are some reviews on there too, so that helps a lot.

My first one was word of mouth through church. Then she stopped and starting working for the school district. I found my second one through Craigslist. Then she moved away and I found my third one online. First two were in home, third is a center. Regardless of which way you find them, be sure to interview and observe before using anyone.

I go to the local county social services and they have a list of current day care providers in the area. The problem is sometimes these lists aren't up to date. But I found that even if I got a no answer for openings, I ask for a referrel to someone. My current daycare I got 6 referrels from other daycare providers and she is great with my kids.