Finding the perfect daycare for your child can feel overwhelming. As a parent, you want to ensure your little one is safe, happy, and well cared for while you’re away.
It’s totally normal to have tons of questions buzzing around in your head. You’re not alone. Many parents have the same concerns and uncertainties.
To make things easier, I’ve put together a list of super important questions to ask when visiting a daycare. These will help you get the info you need and feel confident in your choice.
Table of Contents
Child Safety
- How do you ensure the safety of the children?
- What is your policy for handling emergencies?
- How do you manage access to the building?
- What procedures do you follow for fire drills?
- How do you keep play areas safe and clean?
- Do you have a first-aid-trained staff member on-site at all times?
- How do you ensure that toys and equipment are safe?
- What steps do you take to prevent illness among the children?
- How do you supervise children during outdoor play?
- How do you handle situations where a child gets hurt?
Daily Routine and Activities
- What does a typical day look like at your daycare?
- How do you balance educational activities and playtime?
- Do you follow a structured schedule?
- What types of activities do you offer for different age groups?
- How do you incorporate learning into daily activities?
- Are meals provided, and what do they consist of?
- How much time is allocated for naps or quiet time?
- Do you have any screen time policies?
- How do you handle transitions between activities?
- Do you have outdoor playtime every day?
Staff Qualifications and Training
- What qualifications do your staff members have?
- Do you conduct background checks on your employees?
- How do you train your staff?
- What is the staff-to-child ratio in each age group?
- How long have most of your staff members been with you?
- Do you provide ongoing training and development for your staff?
- How do you handle staff absences or turnover?
- How do you ensure that staff members connect well with children?
- What is your policy for handling staff performance issues?
- How do you support staff in managing challenging behavior in children?
Policies and Procedures
- What is your policy on sick children?
- How do you handle if a child needs medication during the day?
- What is your approach to discipline?
- How do you communicate with parents about their child’s day?
- What is your policy on picking up children?
- How do you handle allergies and dietary restrictions?
- What is your policy on late pickups?
- How do you address behavioral issues?
- Do you have a parent handbook outlining your policies?
- How do you manage holidays and closures?
Daycare Environment and Atmosphere
- How would you describe the atmosphere of your daycare?
- What is your approach to creating a welcoming environment?
- Do you have an open-door policy for parents?
- How do you decorate and organize the spaces?
- How do you ensure that the environment is stimulating but not overwhelming?
- Do you incorporate multicultural and diverse materials and activities?
- How do you handle conflicts between children?
- Do you celebrate holidays or special events?
- How do you make new children feel welcome?
- Can parents visit or observe at any time during the day?
