Daycare centre questions

Here are some questions you may wish to ask a potential professional babysitter or commercial daycare centre. These questions may help you to determine the location's suitability for your child.

Do staff have Early Childhood Education certificate?

Will they encourage parents to visit at any time?

Do they appear to be warm and friendly?

Do they have a sense of humor?

Do they seem to be someone with whom you can develop a relaxed, sharing relationship?

Do they appear to be someone your child will enjoy being around?

Do they seem to feel good about herself/himself and the job?

Do they have child-rearing attitudes and methods that are similar to your own?

Do they understand what children can and want to do at different stages of growth?

Do they have the right materials and equipment on hand to help them learn and grow mentally and physically?

Will they patiently help children solve their problems?

Do they provide activities that encourage children to think things through?

Do they encourage good health habits such as washing hands before eating and after toileting?

Will they talk to the children and encourage them to express themselves through words?

Will they encourage children to express themselves in creative ways?

Do they seem to have enough time to look after each of the children in her/his care?

Will they help the children to know, accept and feel good about themselves?

Do they have previous experience or training in working with children?

Will they provide a routine and rules that the children can understand and follow?

Do they have an entrance physical examination and yearly TB test?

Are they certified in first aid and CPR?

Do they have a first-aid kit, a fire extinguisher, smoke detectors, covered (child-proof) radiators and heaters?

Does the child care facility have an up-to-date license, if required?

Do they have a clean and comfortable look?

Do they have enough space indoors and out so all children can move freely and safely?

Do they have enough furniture, playthings and other equipment for all the children in care?

Do they have equipment that is safe and in good repair?

Do they have equipment and materials suitable for the ages of the children in care?

Do they have safety caps on electrical outlets?

Do they have a safe place to store dangerous items such as medicines, cleaners, poisons, matches, sharp instruments, etc.?

Do they have an alternate exit in case of fire?

Do they have a safety plan to follow in emergencies?

Do they have an outdoor play area that is safe, fenced (or secure) and free of litter?

Do they have groups of manageable size?

Do they have a scholarship program, subsidies or sliding fee scale?

Do they have enough heat, light and ventilation?

Do they have any pets? If so, are they properly trained or penned, and have they had all their appropriate shots?

Do they have safe transportation for field trip with seat belts and car seats used?

Do they have a nap or resting area, depending on ages and needs or the children?

Do they have cots for children through age five?

Do they have nutritious meals and snacks that meet your preferences about the types of food you want your child to eat?

Do they have enough adults to give attention to all of the children in care?

Are the children able to play quietly and actively indoors and out?

Are the children able to play alone at times and with friends at other times?

Are the children able to follow a schedule that meets their need for routine, but is flexible enough to meet the different needs of each child?

Are the children able to use materials and equipment that help them learn new physical skills, develop muscular control and get exercise?

Are the children able to learn to get along, to share and to respect themselves?

Are the children able to learn about their own and others cultures through art, music, books, songs, games and other activities?

Are the children able to visit nearby places of interest, such as the park, library, fire station or museum?

Are the children able to play with many different toys and equipment that enable them to use their imaginations? (For example: books, musical instruments)

Are the children able to choose their own activities for at least part of the day?

The following questions are unique to infant care:

Is there a diaper changing area with a washable surface, and is it sanitized regularly?

Are hands washed before and after feeding and diapering?

Are bottles, nipples and toys kept clean?

Are food and formula served at the right temperature?

Are unused formula and food refrigerated and labeled or discarded when no longer fresh?

Are babies changed promptly when diapers are wet or soiled?

Are babies cleaned thoroughly during diaper changes?

Is a separate crib, portrait or playpen provided for each infant?

Does the person who will be caring for your child:

Treat your child as capable and fun to be around?

Have a willingness to adapt toys and activities to the needs of your child?

Seem to have extra effort and patience to give to your child?

Have a willingness to work with you and any other agencies or medical personnel involved in the care of your child?

Have facilities to accommodate your child?

This site last updated May 27, 2000