10 Questions Every Parent Should Ask Before Enrolling in a Daycare

Choosing the right daycare for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. Whether you’re returning to work, seeking early learning opportunities for your little one, or simply need a safe and nurturing environment for your child, finding the perfect daycare can feel overwhelming. With so many options available, how do you know which one is the best fit for your family?

To help you navigate this critical decision, we’ve compiled a list of 10 essential questions every parent should ask before enrolling in a daycare. These questions will help you evaluate the quality, safety, and suitability of a childcare centre, ensuring your child receives the best care possible. And if you’re in Canada, our site is here to help! As a comprehensive directory of childcare centres across popular cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, Ottawa, Winnipeg, Victoria, and Niagara Falls, we make it easy to discover quality daycare centres and early learning programs near you.

1. What Is the Daycare’s Philosophy or Approach to Early Learning?

Every daycare has its own philosophy when it comes to early childhood education. Some centres focus on play-based learning, while others may emphasize structured academic preparation or Montessori principles. Understanding the daycare’s approach will help you determine if it aligns with your parenting values and your child’s needs.

Ask: “What is your educational philosophy, and how do you incorporate it into daily activities?”

Look for: A clear, well-defined approach that resonates with your goals for your child’s development.

2. What Are the Qualifications and Experience of the Staff?

The quality of care your child receives largely depends on the staff’s qualifications and experience. Well-trained educators and caregivers can make a significant difference in your child’s early learning and emotional well-being.

Ask: “What qualifications do your staff members have? Are they trained in early childhood education (ECE)?”

Look for: Certifications, ongoing training, and a low staff turnover rate, which indicates a stable and experienced team.

3. What Is the Child-to-Staff Ratio?

The child-to-staff ratio is a critical factor in determining how much individual attention your child will receive. Lower ratios generally mean more personalized care and supervision.

Ask: “What is your child-to-staff ratio, and how do you ensure each child gets enough attention?”

Look for: Ratios that meet or exceed provincial licensing requirements. For example, in Ontario, the ratio for toddlers is 1:5.

4. What Is the Daycare’s Policy on Health and Safety?

Your child’s safety is paramount. A reputable daycare should have clear policies and procedures in place to ensure a safe and healthy environment.

Ask: “What measures do you take to ensure the health and safety of the children? How do you handle emergencies or illnesses?”

Look for: Clean facilities, secure entry systems, up-to-date vaccinations, and a well-documented emergency plan.

5. What Is the Daily Schedule Like?

A structured daily schedule helps children feel secure and provides a balance of learning, play, and rest. Understanding the daycare’s routine will help you gauge if it suits your child’s needs.

Ask: “Can you walk me through a typical day at your daycare?”

Look for: A balanced mix of activities, including free play, group activities, outdoor time, and nap or quiet time.

6. How Does the Daycare Handle Discipline and Behavioral Issues?

Every child has moments of challenging behavior, and it’s important to know how the daycare addresses these situations. A positive, consistent approach to discipline is key.

Ask: “What is your approach to discipline and managing behavioral issues?”

Look for: Strategies that focus on positive reinforcement, redirection, and age-appropriate consequences.

7. What Is the Communication Like Between the Daycare and Parents?

Open and regular communication between parents and daycare staff is essential for staying informed about your child’s progress and daily experiences.

Ask: “How do you communicate with parents about their child’s day? Are there regular updates or parent-teacher meetings?”

Look for: Daily reports, newsletters, or apps that provide updates, as well as opportunities for face-to-face discussions.

8. What Are the Fees, and What Do They Include?

Daycare costs can vary significantly depending on the location, type of program, and services offered. Understanding the fee structure will help you budget effectively and avoid unexpected expenses.

Ask: “What are your fees, and what do they include? Are there additional costs for meals, field trips, or extracurricular activities?”

Look for: Transparent pricing and a breakdown of what’s included, such as snacks, meals, or educational materials.

9. What Is the Daycare’s Policy on Sick Days and Absences?

Children get sick, and there may be times when your child cannot attend daycare. Knowing the centre’s policies on sick days, absences, and refunds will help you plan accordingly.

Ask: “What is your policy on sick days, absences, and refunds? Do you offer backup care options?”

Look for: Flexible policies that accommodate occasional absences without excessive penalties.

10. Can I Visit the Daycare and Observe a Typical Day?

A site visit is one of the best ways to evaluate a daycare. Observing the environment, interactions between staff and children, and daily routines can give you valuable insights.

Ask: “Can I schedule a visit to observe a typical day at your daycare?”

Look for: A welcoming atmosphere, engaged children, and staff who are attentive and responsive.

Why Choosing the Right Daycare Matters

The daycare you choose will play a significant role in your child’s early development. It’s where they’ll learn social skills, build relationships, and develop a love for learning. By asking these 10 questions, you can feel confident that you’re making an informed decision that prioritizes your child’s well-being and growth.

How Our Site Can Help

If you’re searching for a daycare in Canada, our directory is here to simplify the process. We list quality childcare centres and early learning programs in popular cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, Ottawa, Winnipeg, Victoria, and Niagara Falls. Whether you’re looking for a play-based daycare, a Montessori program, or a bilingual early learning centre, our site makes it easy to discover options near you.

With detailed profiles, user reviews, and essential information about each centre, you can compare daycares and find the perfect fit for your family. Start your search today and take the first step toward securing a bright future for your child!