Interview questions for infants?

[mom-in-alberta]

"What I look for in an interview with an infant is the connection between the parents and the child and how the mom seems to be about separating - do they put the child down to play, let me hold the child, does dad hold or always mom, does dad get to ask questions or does mom monopolize the conversation. What tone of voice do they use when they ask questions - helps to tell how I will be treated - professional vice the hired help."

Bingo.... other than finding out what the daily routines are/will be for them, I more so want to know how mom and dad will be about sending their baby to a dayhome. They may need some handholding, especially the more nervous/uptight first time parents. I go through our daily routine, and I have a handout for first-time childcare parents as to what to expect and how to transition easily.
For the early-birdie (8 months in advance!) I would interview, and give the tour, etc. HOWEVER; I would not secure a spot for her this early. And I would recommend that if she does feel comfortable, come back for another interview approximately 6weeks to a month before care will be beginning. Simply explain that care provided for a 4 to 5 month old is drastically different than for an almost 1 year old. She (and you) will get a more accurate picture of whether the arrangement will be mutually agreeable at that time.
I also ask parents if anyone else has cared for thier child, and whether or not the child has had much exposure to other children (be it family or strangers). If I get the feeling that mom and dad have been the only social stimulation little one has had, I will STRONGLY recommend that they begin to take him/her to some new environments. Playgroup, indoor facilities, even the park to hang out with other munchkins. It makes it easier when they begin to come to you, I find.

[horsegirl]

I agree totally with the infant/parent connection. You will be able to tell instantly the type of parents and child that will be part of your daycare. I always let the parents know that just as they are interviewing me to see if I am the caregiver they are looking for, I am interviewing them to make sure that they will fit into my extended family.
Go with your gut feeling as to whether you are going to register the child, this is usually the right feeling.

[thu062012]

Hi,

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