Have you decided to bring your child to a child care centre, but you haven't started searching for one yet? Finding the right child care provider takes consideration and time. Besides, you have to recognise how the service works to know when you are offered a high- or low-quality service.

The key to making an informed decision is to determine what you want, then find a service provider that can meet your requirements. Below are some of the questions you should ask to know if you are making a smart choice or not.

Are you confident about the facility?

Your instinct should play an essential role when it comes to choosing a child care centre. If you aren't sure of the care your little one will get while you are away, you will be unable to focus. Both you and your child will be drained emotionally because you aren't comfortable. For this reason, you should strive to find a child care centre that makes both you and your child feel comfortable.

This is mainly determined by the environment in general, the kind of welcome you get and the passion of the care providers. Also, check if the other children seem to be enjoying their time. If they are, then your little one will probably like it too.

How about safety?

No matter how good the environment is or welcoming the providers are, it is vital to prioritise your child's wellbeing. The environment should be safe and age-appropriate. Safety also means having a clean environment where the children play or stay, not using harmful toys, a reasonable ratio of the children to a care provider and the type of equipment the facility offers.

There should be a perimeter wall and gate that prevents the children from walking out of the centre unauthorised. The care providers should also have a policy that prohibits them from releasing the children to anyone unless they are familiar with them.

Will the costs fit your budget?

Before you go looking for a child care centre, you'll obviously have a budget or a rough idea of how much you can pay for the service. It would be best if you only chose a child care centre you can afford to pay to avoid having problems with the service providers.

Most facilities are understanding and charge reasonable rates, but you shouldn't abuse the privilege. So, start saving in advance, if you have to, and ensure the costs fit your budget. You can always visit various centres and compare the prices before making a choice.