Many children spend most of the day in childcare. Because childcare is such a big part of your child’s life, it is important that you think about your child’s temperament and the childcare he attends.

Talk to your child’s caregiver

• Explain your child’s temperament and the ways in which you know he learns and interacts with other children. You know your child best, and it is important that you share what you know with his caregiver.
• Ask your child’s caregiver how she seems to be feeling during the day, what kinds of activities she seems to like best and how she behaves with the other children.
• Talk about how you can both work together to make your child’s time in childcare the best it can be for him.

When choosing new childcare, think about what type of environment will be best for your child’s temperament.

• Will she do best in a larger group of children or a smaller group?
• Will he need lots of activity time or more quiet time?
• Will the noise level be okay for her?
• Will a mixed age group where he is around older and younger children be best, or will he thrive better with children his age?
• Will she need lots of free time or enjoy more structure?