When looking for child care, whether it’s the very first time or a change in program, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Thinking about all the logistics, policies, and details can leave anyone’s head spinning! Our goal at The Sunshine House is to make this process as smooth sailing as possible for you and your little one.
Here are few items to take into consideration as you embark on the journey of finding the right fit for your family.
Location and Hours
Is the school location convenient to home, work, or the route between the two? Do the hours of operation fit your family’s needs? Convenience of location and hours can save time and stress during those hectic drop off and pick times.
With nearly 100 locations ranging from South Carolina to Colorado, there’s sure to be a Sunshine House around the corner. We offer full-time, part-time and drop-in days to give your family flexible care when you need it. Ask your local center director for local school transportation options!
Do a Policy Check
Get familiar with the rules and regulations for childcare in your area. Ask about the program’s safety practices, staff-child ratios, immunization policies, sick child policies, meals, family communication, staff screening, and staff training. Scheduling a tour at your local Sunshine House is also an opportunity for you to include other items that are high on your priority list. Download our tour checklist here!
Each of our schools is secured with electronic keypad entry, and our teachers are certified in first aid and CPR and receive annual SIDs training. Our families also receive digital, real-time updates on their child with The Sunshine House mobile app. You’ll be able to relax knowing your child is safe and sound, and just a tap away!
Physical Space
As you tour the program, pay attention to the physical space. Is the classroom furniture appropriately sized for children to access and practice independence? Are there a variety of materials for children to play 
with and explore? Is the space clean and organized? Are classroom materials and furniture in good repair?
Peek into our classrooms online! Each Sunshine House school has classroom pictures posted on our website. Classrooms are thoughtfully designed and arranged to give your child a space to move and grow.
Relationships and Interactions
Tour the facility when you can see staff interacting with children (not during naptime, for example). While touring the program, do you feel a sense of warmth? In classrooms, pay attention to how the staff interact with children. You should see adults down at the child’s level, engaging students physically and verbally. Observe if the children and staff look happy, engaged in classroom activities, and seem to generally enjoy each other’s company.
Kind, caring teachers are important to us. Your child’s happiness is our happiness! Schedule a meeting at your local school to get to know who will be taking care of your child. We love to grow our Sunshine Family.
What do they do all day?
Ask about the classroom’s daily schedule and curriculum. The schedu
le should include plenty of time for children to participate in group activities, individual activities, physical activity, meals/snacks, quiet/rest time, and free time to explore. The curriculum should address all areas of your child’s development (cognitive, social and emotional, speech and language, fine motor, and gross motor). Look around the room to find evidence of classroom activities, a posted schedule, and lesson plan.
Our Creative Curriculum and Brain Connect Infant Curriculum are designed to keep your kids engaged and excited. They’ll participate in our Seeds of Literacy Program, NFL Play 60, Spanish & sign language, special guests, STEM activities, and more.
Contact your local Sunshine House to let us show you why we’re the right fit for your family. Tours are available at each school, or take a free Discovery Day! We’re proud to say we’ve been parent-trusted for 45 years. We promise to provide high-quality care and education – every child, every family, every day.
