If your church has a childcare center, you understand how certain pieces of equipment are necessary for running a safe, successful operation. No matter the size of your daycare, these seven equipment choices are essential for success.
- CRIBS
When selecting the right cribs, consider models that can easily be converted to an evacuation crib with a kit. These cribs feature improved safety features like sturdy caster wheels and easy grip handles, which allow for easier mobility in the event of an emergency.
Cribs with 360-degree visibility give caregivers an unobstructed view of sleeping or resting babies, which makes overseeing a room full of infants much easier.
Selecting a crib mattress is a weighty decision, as well. Supportive crib mattresses can promote calm and relaxation while infants are away from the familiarity of home. Keep babies content and safe with mattresses free of unnecessary chemicals, like flame-retardant additives.
- STORAGE UNITS
Convenient equipment that saves time for your employees improves their ability to care for your center’s children. Less conspicuous items, like storage units, can often make a big impact on the productivity of your daycare team.
Whether shelving and storage bins are used to store daycare necessities or children’s belongings, thoughtfully placed and well-organized storage units increase your center’s efficiency and functionality. Parents also like it when your storage systems have a cubby for each children’s spare diapers, change of clothes, snacks, and toys.
Anchoring furniture to walls and installing locks on cabinet doors might be necessary depending on the equipment’s location and contents.
- COTS
Daycare cots are your facility’s go-to equipment for little nappers. As a daily workhorse for your toddler through preschool rooms, this equipment must be durable, sanitary and fast to set up/put away.
Although cots may not seem inherently dangerous, certain design features could pose a risk, especially after wear from daily use. Look for cot beds that use anti-fraying material, as well as designs that eliminate gaps or wells where tiny arms and legs could get caught.
Additionally, cots that are easily wiped clean after use or extended stays in storage will improve efficiency and cleanliness.
- STEP STOOLS
Little ones will need a step up to reach sinks, counters, and other areas throughout the day. Standard stepping stools can do the job but may lack added safety features for small children still mastering their coordination skills.
A wide base and nonslip legs will help prevent a step stool from tipping. Some stools are equipped with higher, supportive frames that act as a handle to lessen the chance of a fall. Step stools with nonslip treads are especially useful in bathrooms.
- FEEDING CHAIRS
Mealtimes can be controlled or chaotic. Having helpful equipment, like high-quality feeding chairs, and a good room layout will make all the difference. Each unit should be equipped with a secure harness or belt and a base that will keep the chair from tilting or falling.
Ease of cleaning should play a big factor in feeding chair selection, too. Look for smooth surfaces, minimal wells, and straps that won’t trap or absorb liquid.
- CHANGING TABLES
Infant and toddler rooms are going to need a clean, safe diaper changing table. Choose models with adjustable safety straps and built-in changing areas that are deep enough to keep children from rolling off while still being accessible by the caregiver.
Commercial changing tables often provide additional features beneficial for daycares like durable and easy-to-clean construction and built-in shelves or cubbies for storage. Look for models with coordinating wall-mounted diaper organizers that will provide your staff with easy access to diaper changing necessities.
- STROLLERS
The right multi-child stroller can make outdoor adventures enjoyable for both the passengers and the operator. For safety, strollers should be equipped with features like parking brakes and 5-point safety harnesses. Added features like independently reclining seats and expandable canopies will be appreciated by children, while caregivers will look for all terrain tires, large storage baskets, and easy maneuverability. Any daycare-friendly stroller will incorporate collapsible functionality for compact storage and portability.
This information is courtesy of Foundations Worldwide, a leading supplier of children’s furnishings to professional childcare centers, www.foundations.com.
