Childcare Options Part 2 – Finding The Right Fit

August 11, 2014
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Preparing yourself for work or back to school is hard. We get it. Add in searching for childcare options and the stress-o-meter can hit overload. If you’re feeling overwhelmed with either too many or not enough childcare options we hope this post will help. But first, stop and take a deep breath. Let it out. Repeat. Now keep reading.


We want to build on our previous post about all the different types of childcare options available with some practical information to help you narrow down your search and find the best fit for you.


Referrals

Begin your search by asking friends, family, co-workers and other people you trust for recommendations based on their experience. Another simple way to get feedback is to post a message on social media. Friends are quick to give input and the information you receive will most likely be unfiltered, giving you an honest review of providers.


Research

Also, start doing your own research online. Look up day care providers close to your home as well as close to your work or school. You can also check up on these facilities to see if they’re a good fit for you based on the type and size of the operation. Do they post reviews online? Do they have pictures and staff bios? By taking a little bit of time with your online search, you can narrow your options down in no time.


Interviewing

Once you have narrowed your options down to 2-4 childcare providers you’ll want to meet them face to face for an interview. Call ahead and schedule time to talk with either the day care director or individual day care provider. Do some prep work prior to going to the interview and have a written list of questions you want answered with you at the meeting. This is the time to gather specific information, so be sure to ask a lot of questions like:

  • What is the cost and are there hidden fees?
  • What is the payment schedule – weekly, monthly?
  • Are they licensed?
  • How do they handle meals?
  • Are there scheduled naps?
  • What is their philosophy of discipline? Education?
  • How do they report incidents, accidents or illness to you?
  • What is the policy for sick days?


References

Be sure to get names and numbers of other moms with kids there and call them! Ask them about their experience and take some time to see if the provider is a good fit. Remember your child will be there every day, so this is time well spent. If they can’t give you references mark them off the list and move on to the next provider.


Take a Tour

While you are interviewing, ask for a tour of the facility if it is a childcare center. If it is someone’s personal home, ask to view where your child will be during the day. Is it clean and well organized? Do they have a specific area of the home dedicated to play and rest? Are the playgrounds safe? Where will meals be provided? Do they have their credentials posted? If it is an in-home facility, do they have the maximum number of children? How do the kids get along? At this point you’re trying to get a feel for if this is a good fit for you and your baby. If you don’t feel good about something you see, then ask more questions to narrow down your search.


Think It Over

After you have taken the time for the interview, give yourself a few days before making a decision if you can. Think about your options and weigh the pros and cons. Talk to friends and family about each option and get feedback. Once you’ve decided, make sure to get all of your paperwork (i.e. physicals, shot records, forms if you are qualified for government assistance, and releases) signed and returned to them so that there are no glitches on your first day. You want your focus will be on transitioning your child that day, not on logistics.



We hope this has been helpful to you. Have we missed anything? Please leave us your thoughts in the comments. It will be helpful to other moms as they search for childcare options.

February 10, 2026
An unexpected pregnancy can already feel like a lot to carry. However, when your partner is strongly pushing you toward abortion, and you’re not sure what you want, it can feel even heavier. You may feel torn between your own emotions and his expectations, trying to keep the peace while feeling anxious or confused. If you’re in this situation, take a deep breath. At Collage, we understand how emotionally complicated this can be. You deserve a safe place to talk through what you’re feeling and be treated with respect. You don’t have to rush into a decision. Schedule a free appointment to learn how we can help you navigate this situation. It’s Your Decision Sometimes a partner’s reaction is rooted in panic. He may be thinking about finances, school, your relationship, or how unprepared he feels. In his mind, abortion may seem like the fastest solution. When someone repeatedly insists on one outcome, refuses to listen, or makes you feel guilty for even considering other options, it can start to feel like your voice doesn’t matter. And in a moment this vulnerable, your voice matters more than ever.  Giving Yourself Space If conversations feel tense or emotionally draining, it’s okay to take a step back. You have the right to say something like, “I need time to think. I’m not ready to decide right now.” Creating a little space can help you reconnect with your own thoughts instead of constantly reacting to his. Sometimes the best thing you can do is pause, breathe, and remind yourself that you don’t have to figure everything out in one day. You Deserve Respect It’s also important to pay attention to warning signs. If your partner threatens to leave, withdraw support, manipulate you emotionally, or isolate you from others unless you choose abortion, that is not love. That is control. You deserve a relationship where your safety and well-being are protected, not threatened. If you ever feel unsafe, reach out for immediate support. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-7233) offers 24/7 confidential resources to help you get the assistance you need. You Deserve a Safe Place to Talk It Through At Collage, we’re here to support you. You don’t have to walk into our center with a decision already made. You can come in simply because you need someone to listen, help you process, and remind you that you are not alone. This is your pregnancy and future. If your partner is pressuring you and you’re feeling unsure, please know that help is available. We offer a calm, caring environment where you can talk openly, ask questions, and explore your options without feeling judged or persuaded to make a specific decision. You are not alone in this. Schedule an appointment with Collage today. We’re here to walk with you, one step at a time. Collage does not provide or refer for abortions; however, we do offer pre-abortion screening through our no-cost services .
January 23, 2026
Facing an unplanned pregnancy can bring up difficult questions, especially when it comes to your relationship. You may be wondering whether you are required to tell your partner you’re considering an abortion, or whether it’s okay to keep that information private. Fear of conflict, concern about pressure, or a desire to protect your emotional well-being can all play a role. These feelings are common, and it’s okay to take time to think through what feels safest and healthiest for you. Collage offers a confidential and non-judgmental space where you can discuss these concerns without pressure. Before making any decisions, we provide cost-free pregnancy services , including ultrasounds, to help you understand important details about your pregnancy. Our goal is to give you accurate medical information and the space you need to move forward with clarity. You’re welcome to schedule a private, confidential appointment to learn more when you feel ready. Understanding Your Autonomy In many states, adults are not legally required to tell a partner if they’re considering or planning an abortion. Medical decisions about your body are generally protected by privacy laws, meaning the decision is legally yours. Some exceptions exist, such as parental involvement laws for minors, but partner notification is typically not required for adults. Even when the law is clear, the emotional side of this decision can feel complicated. You may feel torn between maintaining privacy and wanting honesty in your relationship. There is no single “right” approach, only what best supports your well-being and circumstances. When Safety Is a Concern In some relationships, sharing your thoughts with a partner may lead to understanding or emotional support. In others, it may not feel safe. If you’re worried about pressure, manipulation, anger, or physical harm, prioritizing your safety is essential. You’re never obligated to share information that could put you at risk. If you feel unsafe or unsure, confidential help is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-SAFE). Support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Why Medical Information Matters Whether or not you involve your partner, having accurate medical information is an important step. An ultrasound can help confirm gestational age, pregnancy location, and whether the pregnancy is viable. These details matter for your health and can help you feel more grounded as you consider your next steps. You Are Not Alone At Collage, we offer a confidential, respectful environment where your voice and concerns are taken seriously. Our team provides pregnancy confirmation, emotional support, and space to think through your situation without pressure or judgment. You deserve time, clarity, and peace of mind as you decide what is right for your life. Connect with Collage to discuss your questions in a supportive and confidential setting. Collage does not provide or refer for abortions; however, we do offer pre-abortion screening through our no-cost services.
December 17, 2025
Holiday gatherings often bring familiar traditions, questions, and expectations. But when you’re carrying the news of an unexpected pregnancy that you haven’t shared, the season may feel different this year. You might be participating in celebrations while quietly navigating thoughts and emotions that others cannot see. If you want clarity about your pregnancy or a private space to consider your next steps, Collage offers free services, including pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and confidential consultations, to support your needs. Schedule your appointment today. Prepare Yourself, Not the Perfect Conversation You may not be ready to share your news, and that’s okay. What can help is preparing yourself: deciding on the topics you’re comfortable discussing, the questions you want to avoid, and the boundaries you want to set. This proactivity allows you to answer without feeling like you need to tell all and not overshare. Create Space Throughout the Gathering Instead of thinking about the whole event at once, break it into smaller, manageable moments. Emotional regulation becomes easier when you give yourself space to reset. Try:  Stepping outside for a few breaths of fresh air Finding a quiet room for a brief pause Taking a short walk after a meal Giving yourself permission to excuse yourself from overwhelming conversations These small steps can help protect your peace. Remember that if at any point during the gathering you’re ready to go home, go ahead. Take care of yourself by calling it a day when necessary. Meet Your Basic Needs Early pregnancy symptoms such as nausea and fatigue can be uncomfortable during gatherings. Come prepared to meet your own needs by bringing pregnancy nausea candy, snacks to settle your stomach, and a water bottle. Store these items in your purse, knowing they’re ready when you need them. You Don’t Have to Navigate This Season Alone If you want clarity before facing holiday conversations, Collage can help you understand your pregnancy and answer questions in a calm, confidential setting, which can make these boundaries easier to hold. Contact us whenever you’re ready to schedule a free appointment. Collage does not provide or refer for abortions; however, we do offer pre-abortion screening through our no-cost services .
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