Finding the Right Childcare: What Really Matters for Your Family
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Time to read 3 min
Choosing childcare can feel overwhelming. With so many options—centre-based care, family daycare, or flexible setups like BubbaDesk—it’s easy to get lost in the details. But here’s the truth: the best childcare isn’t just about what looks good on paper. It’s about what truly works for you, your child, and your lifestyle. Do you need flexibility or a set schedule? A big, bustling environment or a more intimate setting? The right choice depends on your family’s unique needs.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key factors to consider, the most important questions to ask, and how to find a childcare option that fits—not the other way around.
Finding the right childcare can be so daunting for so many parents. Can you tell us – what are the most important things to look for in childcare?
The best childcare? It’s the one that actually works for you. Not just on paper, not just for someone else’s family—for you, your child, and your life. There are different options—centre-based childcare, family daycare, or something like BubbaDesk—each with its own vibe.
Before you dive in, ask yourself:
- How close do I want to be to my child? Do you want the reassurance of knowing they’re nearby, or do you prefer a clear separation between work and care? There’s no right answer, just what feels best.
- How much flexibility do I need? Some places lock you into set days, which works if your schedule is predictable. But if you need to switch days, book casually, or adjust as you go, a more flexible setup is key.
- What kind of space suits my child? Some kids thrive in a busy, high-energy environment. Others do better in smaller groups with more one-on-one attention. Trust your instincts—you know your child best.
At the end of the day, the best childcare is the one that fits your family, your schedule, and your peace of mind. Whether that’s a traditional centre, family daycare, or a flexible, parent-first model like BubbaDesk.
Can you share with us the top things we should be asking the childcare centres we visit?
It’s not just about availability. It’s about finding a space that gets you and your child. Here’s what to ask:
"How do you adapt to my child’s routine?"
Many centres follow a set schedule—great for some, but not for every child. If your little one has their own rhythm, ask if the centre works with that or expects them to adjust. At BubbaDesk, we follow your baby’s routine, not the other way around. Sleep, feeds, play—we support what works for them.
"What’s your child-to-carer ratio?"
Bigger centres mean more kids per carer, which can mean less personal attention. Ask how many kids are in a group and how they ensure each child gets the care they need. BubbaDesk keeps group sizes small with a ratio of 4:1 across all ages, so carers can truly connect with each child—not just supervise from a distance.
"What’s your policy on sickness?"
Because let’s be real—childcare = germs. Ask when kids need to stay home, how they manage illness outbreaks, and how they handle cleaning protocols. At BubbaDesk, small groups mean less exposure to widespread sickness. Plus, our parents have the flexibility to work from home if their child is unwell—so they’re less inclined to do the drop and run…
"How much time do carers spend on documentation vs. actually caring for the kids?"
Documentation matters, but not when it takes away from care. Some centres require staff to constantly record everything instead of focusing on the kids. At BubbaDesk, we keep it simple. No excessive paperwork—just great care, play, and support.
Childcare centres tend to have such big waitlists, and children born mid-year always struggle to get in. Is this the same with BubbaDesk?
Not impossible—but yes, sometimes we hit capacity and run a waitlist. Most childcare centres run on yearly enrolments—which is a nightmare if your baby is born mid-year or you don’t want to commit 12 months in advance. At BubbaDesk, we do things differently.
No set intake periods.
No need to book five days a week to secure a spot.
No waiting until next term to start.
You book as you need, whether it’s one day a week or five. That said, some days do fill up fast, so we run a waitlist when necessary and notify parents as soon as spots open. Because childcare should fit into your life—not the other way around.