• Spend time on the front-end. Research potential day-care situations in depth. Talk to a provider’s references. Closely review each provider’s contract. Be sure late fees, sick-care policies, vacation days, holidays, contract termination and other issues are clearly spelled out. Many policies are required by the state for licensed providers.

• Choose a provider who makes communication a priority. Look for providers who give regular, written progress reports on your child. To get a sense of how the provider communicates, ask his or her references this question: “When there was a difference in opinion, how did the caregiver respond?”

• Make time for communication. Figure out when it will be easiest to talk with providers about issues at home or at day care. A daily sharing of information about naps, meals and the child’s mood is best.