MISSISSIPPI STATE -- Adults can change a job environment that is unsuitable, but children have no such option when it comes to their 8-to-5 lives.

All children need to spend their time where they are safe and will thrive. For healthy development to occur, children must be talked to, played with, and given love and attention.

Louise Davis, Extension associate professor of child and family development at Mississippi State University, said the decision of who is responsible for a child when parents are away is extremely important. Choosing that caregiver is an involved process.

"Quality child care is more than providing a safe and healthy place for children to stay," Davis said. "A childcare center should offer a positive learning environment with a good curriculum in place, caregivers who continually update their education and a low staff-to-child ratio."

Caregivers should understand how children grow and learn and be sensitive to their needs. They should be well trained, dependable and have good relationships with the families of the children they serve.

"When selecting a caregiver, look for those who spend time holding, cuddling and talking to the children," Davis said. "A good caregiver encourages parents to become involved in their children's care and welcomes visits at any time."

Indoor and outdoor areas should be safe, clean and cared for, and children should be free to explore independently. Meals and snacks should be served when appropriate. Menus should follow U.S. Department of Agriculture nutritional guidelines and be posted for parents to see.

"One of the most important things children learn at this age is language, so caregivers must provide the opportunity to learn through talking, playing and interacting," Davis said.

One of the basic things to consider when selecting a childcare provider is the adult-to-child ratio. The National Association for the Education of Young Children suggests low ratios between caregivers and children. They recommend one adult for each of the following groups: every three infants, every four to five children ages 1 to 2, every six to seven children ages 2 to 3 and every 10 children ages 3 to 5.

"Childcare providers with low adult-to-child ratios typically charge more, but children get the most individualized care in these settings," Davis said.

The three basic types of child care are in-home care, care by relatives and center-based care.

"In-home care is very convenient and flexible since the caregiver comes to your home to watch your child," Davis said. "Make sure you provide playtime with other children, stimulating learning activities and a routine schedule. If you choose this option, you need to be sure that you have a substitute on occasions when your caregiver is unable to work."

Parents who leave their children in the care of relatives give the opportunity for staying in a family setting and playing with children of different ages. Find a family caregiver who provides plenty of learning activities. Be prepared with a substitute for backup if the regular provider takes some time off.

"Look for center-based care that offers a program with a planned curriculum and that focuses on interactive learning," Davis said. "Make sure the caregiver-to-child ratio is low so your child will have the most personal attention and the best care."

Word-of-mouth is one of the best ways to find a good caregiver. Make a list of providers believed to be reliable and start visiting sites. See how the childcare provider interacts with the children and if the children are involved in learning activities.

"Make sure you get a positive impression of the facilities," Davis said. "If you're not completely comfortable with the arrangement, keep looking until you find one where you have no qualms about leaving your child."

Stay involved even after the decision is made and the child is enrolled. Drop in unexpectedly and watch how the children react to the childcare arrangement. Discuss any concerns with the childcare provider, and make changes if necessary.

"Children will grow up soon enough and face the stresses of life and work. Until then, make sure your child's everyday environment is nurturing, stimulating and stress-free," Davis said.