QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN EVALUATING CHILDCARE
When evaluating childcare for your baby, it's essential to ask questions that cover a variety of topics, such as safety, curriculum, staff qualifications, and overall environment. Here’s a comprehensive list to guide you:
Safety and Health
Licensing and Accreditation:
Is the daycare licensed and/or accredited by a recognized organization?
Are there any recent inspection reports or violations?
Safety Measures:
What security measures are in place to ensure children’s safety (e.g., locked doors, check-in/check-out procedures)?
How do you handle emergencies like fires, medical situations, or severe weather?
Health Policies:
What is the sick policy for children and staff?
How often are toys and surfaces cleaned?
Do staff follow handwashing and hygiene protocols?
Food and Allergies:
Do you provide meals, and if so, what is the menu like?
How do you handle dietary restrictions or food allergies?
Staff Qualifications and Ratios
Staff Credentials:
What qualifications or certifications do the staff have (e.g., early childhood education, CPR, first aid)?
How long has the staff been with the daycare?
Child-to-Staff Ratio:
What is the caregiver-to-child ratio?
How do you ensure adequate supervision during busy times like drop-off and pick-up?
Background Checks and Training:
Do you conduct background checks on all staff?
What ongoing training or professional development do they receive?
Daily Schedule and Curriculum
Daily Routine:
What does a typical day look like for infants?
How do you handle naps and feedings?
Learning and Development:
What activities are designed to support babies' development (motor skills, sensory play, etc.)?
Do you follow a specific curriculum or developmental framework?
Outdoor Time:
Do children spend time outdoors, and how often?
What safety measures are in place for outdoor play?
Communication and Updates
Parent Communication:
How do you keep parents informed about their child’s day (daily reports, photos, app updates)?
How do you address parent concerns or feedback?
Milestone Tracking: Do you track developmental milestones, and how do you communicate progress with parents?
Environment and Culture
Space and Cleanliness: How do you ensure the space is clean, safe, and baby-friendly?
Philosophy and Approach:
What is your approach to discipline (if applicable) and comforting babies?
How do you ensure all children feel included and nurtured?
Transitions: How do you support babies transitioning into daycare and moving up to different age groups?
Practical Considerations
Hours and Flexibility:
What are your operating hours?
What’s the annual calendar and holiday schedule?
Costs:
What are the fees, and what’s included (meals, supplies, etc.)?
Are there late pick-up charges or other extra fees?
Waitlist and Enrollment:
Is there a waitlist, and how does enrollment work?
What is your policy for withdrawing or making changes?
Staff Turnover:
How long have your teachers been working there? /What’s the turnover rate?
How do you ensure continuity of care for children?
Pro-Tip:
Trust your instincts during the visit—observe how staff interact with children, how babies seem to respond, and whether the environment feels warm, clean, and welcoming.
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