Written by the Progyny Editorial Team. Reviewed by Dr. Jennifer Trachtenberg — May 2025.
Once you’ve chosen the best childcare for your child, it’s important to set up a good way to keep in touch with them. Thankfully, many providers already have a system in place to keep parents updated on their child’s progress.
They typically send home daily progress reports to parents in diaper bags, backpacks, a notebook, or a phone app. These reports might include things like lesson plans, special achievements, behaviors the provider noticed, or what the child ate for lunch. These reports can be especially meaningful when little ones are still too young to share details about their day.
Tips for better communication
The best way to keep the lines of communication open with your care provider is to develop a relationship with them. Building it includes making a point to meet face-to-face, speaking daily, and interacting through technology (e.g., a daycare webcam or childcare provider app).
Often, parents are invited to visit the childcare center or volunteer to help with an activity, such as lunchtime prep or a trip to the park. During your next visit, ask about upcoming events.
If you have questions, comments, or concerns, be sure to talk to your care provider. By collaborating with them, you can make the childcare experience better for everyone.
When it’s time to move on
We know that kids need stability and a warm nurturing environment where they can grow.
However, sometimes kids or families have needs that can’t be met by the current provider or it’s just not a good fit. It may be that:
- Your child has had trouble with another child.
- They don’t feel comfortable at the childcare center.
- Your child has outgrown their current program.
- Your provider has a lot of turnovers.
- Your provider is unable to accommodate special situations like food allergies or health needs, such as asthma.
- Your child has been crying at drop off for weeks.
One or two of these signs doesn’t necessarily mean the childcare provider is the wrong choice. But it’s still a good idea to check in and see how your child feels about being there. Talk to them and ask what they like — or don’t like — about it. You can also talk to the provider team and ask them how they think your child is doing.
Whatever the reason, it’s okay to look into other options that may work better for both you and your child.
All in all
If you’re happy with your provider, let them know! Positive feedback can help drive program development. If you have concerns, talk to your provider about ways to support positive outcomes for your child. And if you decide it’s time to move on, then it’s okay to find a new provider.
As parents, our number one goal is to make sure our kids are safe, healthy, and cared for properly. You’re their advocate and can help create a healthy environment through open communication with their care provider.
If you have questions or concerns, Progyny is here for you. Please contact your Progyny Care Advocate for support.