By Pam Morris, Early Learning Center director
Education as a career path and life goal began for me in 1992 with my graduation with a BS in Psychology from Binghamton University. That fall, I entered my master’s program in Early Childhood Education at the same university, different school and I never looked back! With many relevant degrees, over 3 decades of hands-on experience, Early Childhood Education is my passion, my raison d’etre, my tachlit, my reason for being.
After 14 years leading early childhood programs, one of the most common questions I hear from expectant parents is, “When should we start looking for infant care?” My answer often surprises them: as soon as you know you’re expecting.
I know that sounds early—and maybe even overwhelming when you’re still picking out nursery colors—but here’s what I’ve learned from three decades in education and watching countless families navigate this decision.
The Reality of Infant Care Waitlists
Quality infant care programs fill up quickly, often 6-12 months in advance. During my years as both assistant director and director, I’ve seen families heartbroken when they started their search at six months pregnant, only to find that spots for their desired start date were already filled. Infant classrooms have the lowest child-to-teacher ratios (typically 1:4 in quality programs), which means fewer available spots than any other age group.
The Ideal Timeline
Here’s the timeline I recommend to families:
During pregnancy (ideally second trimester): Start researching programs and scheduling tours. This gives you time to visit during a calm moment, not in a panic three weeks before you return to work.
6-8 months before your return to work: Narrow down your top choices and complete applications. Many programs require a deposit to hold your spot.
3-4 months before starting: Finalize paperwork, complete health forms, and begin the transition plan with your chosen program.
What to Look For During Your Search
In my master’s program and throughout my career, I’ve studied what truly matters in infant care. Here’s what I tell families to prioritize:
Consistency of caregivers. Babies thrive on relationships. Ask about teacher retention rates and how the program handles transitions.
A homelike environment. The best infant rooms feel warm and calm, not institutional. Look for soft lighting, cozy spaces, and age-appropriate materials within reach.
Responsive caregiving. Quality programs follow each baby’s individual schedule for feeding and sleeping, rather than a rigid one-size-fits-all approach.
Communication systems. You should expect daily updates about your baby’s day—feedings, diaper changes, sleep, and those precious developmental milestones.
Trust Your Instincts
After 30 years in education, I can tell you that data and credentials matter, but so does your gut feeling. When you walk into a program, notice how teachers interact with babies. Do they get down on the floor? Do they talk to infants during diaper changes? Do they seem genuinely joyful?
At our Early Learning Center, we welcome families of all backgrounds because we believe diversity enriches every child’s experience. I’ve watched children from six weeks through kindergarten grow in our program, and those earliest bonds between babies, families, and caregivers create a foundation that lasts.
Starting Early Reduces Stress
I’ve seen the difference between families who plan ahead and those who scramble at the last minute.
Starting your search early means you can:
- Tour multiple programs without rushing
- Ask thoughtful questions and compare philosophies
- Build a relationship with your program before your baby even arrives
- Have one less thing to worry about during those precious early weeks with your newborn
Final Thoughts
Every family’s situation is unique, and I’ve worked with parents across every scenario imaginable—from those who toured before their baby was born to those who needed care with just a few weeks’ notice. We always do our best to accommodate families, but starting early gives you more options and peace of mind.
If you’re expecting or thinking about infant care, I’d encourage you to start the conversation now. Tour programs, ask questions, and find the place where you can envision your child thriving. Your future self—the one juggling sleep deprivation and returning to work—will thank you.