Choosing a childcare center is one of the most important decisions you will make as a parent. Whether you’re returning to work, seeking socialization for your little one, or simply looking for a nurturing and educational space to support your child’s development, the right environment can make all the difference.
At Granny Nanny, we understand the trust you place in a childcare provider. That’s why we’ve put together these essential tips to help you make a confident and informed decision when choosing the best care for your child.
1. Know What You’re Looking For
Before you begin touring childcare centers, define your needs. Ask yourself:
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Do I need full-time, part-time, or flexible hours?
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Is a Montessori or structured curriculum important to me?
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What kind of environment do I want for my child—nurturing, academic, play-based?
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Do I want access to nighttime or weekend care?
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What values do I want the caregivers to promote—independence, kindness, creativity?
Having clear priorities will help you evaluate each center through a focused lens.
2. Observe the Environment Carefully
A high-quality childcare center should be clean, safe, and thoughtfully organized. When touring a center, observe:
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Cleanliness: Are play areas, restrooms, and eating spaces tidy and sanitized?
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Safety: Are there child-proofing measures, visible supervision, and secure entrances?
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Engagement: Are children actively engaged in age-appropriate, meaningful activities?
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Atmosphere: Does the environment feel warm, respectful, and joyful?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions about how cleanliness and safety are maintained throughout the day.
3. Ask About Staff Qualifications and Training
Caregivers are the heart of any childcare center. The quality of care your child receives depends on the experience, patience, and training of the staff. Inquire about:
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Staff-to-child ratio and group sizes.
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Staff qualifications (Are they certified in early childhood education or Montessori-trained?).
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Ongoing professional development or training programs.
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First-aid and CPR certifications.
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Background checks and hiring practices.
Trustworthy centers will be transparent about their team and proud of their training standards.
4. Look at the Curriculum and Daily Schedule
An effective childcare center should offer more than just supervision—it should support your child’s emotional, physical, social, and cognitive development. Ask to see the daily schedule and how learning is integrated.
At Granny Nanny, for instance, our Montessori-inspired program incorporates:
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Practical Life Skills: Children learn independence through activities like pouring, cleaning, and dressing.
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Sensorial Exploration: Materials engage touch, sound, and movement for deeper learning.
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Creative Expression: Art, music, and storytelling are woven into everyday learning.
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Outdoor Play: Physical development and nature-based activities are essential parts of the day.
Choose a center that aligns with your child’s learning style and supports exploration.
5. Evaluate Communication and Parent Involvement
You should never feel out of the loop when it comes to your child’s care. A good childcare center keeps lines of communication open. Find out:
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How and how often will you receive updates about your child’s day?
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Is there a platform or app to communicate with teachers?
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Are parents invited to events, meetings, or workshops?
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How does the center handle concerns or emergencies?
At Granny Nanny, we believe in forming strong partnerships with parents. From daily updates using our dedicated app to monthly reports and open-door policies, we keep you connected every step of the way.
6. Check for Licensing and Accreditation
Always verify that the center is licensed by the appropriate government agencies. Accreditation by reputable bodies, such as the Early Childhood Commission in Jamaica or international Montessori associations, is an added mark of quality.
Licensing ensures the center meets minimum standards for health, safety, staffing, and programming.
7. Trust Your Instincts
Sometimes, the most important factor is how you feel when you walk into a childcare center.
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Do the children seem happy and secure?
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Do the caregivers seem attentive and compassionate?
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Do you feel welcomed, heard, and respected?
If something feels “off,” don’t be afraid to keep looking. You’re not just choosing a service—you’re choosing a second home for your child.
Why Families Choose Granny Nanny
At Granny Nanny 24-Hour Montessori-Inspired Childcare, we’ve created a unique environment where children thrive at any hour of the day. Our center is:
✅ Open 24/7 to support the ever-changing needs of working parents.
✅ Montessori-inspired, emphasizing self-confidence, independence, and purposeful play.
✅ Staffed with trained and nurturing caregivers who treat every child with love and respect.
✅ Designed to be a safe, stimulating, and joyful environment for children ages 0–13.
✅ Committed to partnering with families to raise happy, healthy, and capable children.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a childcare center is a deeply personal decision, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By knowing your priorities, asking the right questions, and observing carefully, you’ll find a place where your child can feel loved, supported, and inspired to grow.
If you’re in Greater Portmore or nearby, we welcome you to schedule a tour and experience the Granny Nanny difference firsthand.
Granny Nanny—Where Quality Meets Compassion, 24 Hours a Day.