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NIAGARA, WI -- Now that summer is finally here, working parents are looking to find alternative forms of supervision for their children.  Many turn to daycare providers, but how do you know which one is right for you? Experts say that there are many factors to take into consideration, such as whether a daycare offers opportunities for kids to learn lessons such as manners and social skills.

Before you enroll your child in any program, however, officials recommend that you make sure the provider is licensed.

"We'd rather parents asked and make sure that everything's here that needs to be here and that their kids are going to be safe," said Shelley Dumais, owner of Just 4 Kids Childcare.

Different providers offer different programs, so be sure to check into those as well.

Another thing to take into consideration is wether or not your day care provider serves a meal program.  That way, you not only don't have to worry about packing your child a lunch, you're also assured that your child is getting nutritious food and snacks.

As for costs, many set up payment plans, and certified daycare is tax deductible.  And, though you may save a few bucks hiring a babysitter for the summer, officials caution that they're not always reliable.

In addition, most daycare providers also continue your child's education throughout the summer months, so they're ready when they go back to school.  Statistics show that children in learning environments during the summer tend to do better academically because they retain information that they've learned.