Picking a daycare

Diapers. Toilet training. Daycare. It all happens so fast. If you're a working parent, sooner or later, you'll need a good daycare.

But how do you know where to look or even what to look for? Dr. Diane Sacks, president of the Canadian Paediatric Society joined Balance Television host Dr. Marla Shapiro to help guide you through your daycare dilemma.

"The absolute hardest thing that any parent will do is find proper care for their child while they're at work," Sacks said. "And many people have to work, this is for some not a choice."

The big thing, Sacks said, is to know yourself, know your child and follow some basic rules.

Most importantly, make sure whatever daycare provision you have for your child is safe. If you have someone coming into your home, make sure they know what to do in case of emergency. Check if they have first aid or CPR training. St John's Ambulance offers wonderful courses, Sacks said.

Look, observe and visit when choosing a structured daycare. Make sure you're satisfied, Sacks said.

"Watch for handwashing," she said. "Something that a lot of people who really don't have safety as number one or health issues as number one will not do or forget to do. Watch for that."