As a parent, choosing the right child care centre for your child can be stressful. With so many options available, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of where to start. That's why we've compiled the ultimate checklist of what to ask when looking for the perfect child care centre. From safety standards and curriculum to staff qualifications and facilities, this list will help you make an informed decision that gives you peace of mind knowing your child is in good hands. So let's dive in and find the best fit for your family!
When it comes to finding the perfect child care centre for your child, it is important to ask the right questions. With so many options out there, it can be difficult to know where to start. Here is a comprehensive checklist of what to ask when looking for a child care centre:
Questions to Ask About the Facility and Staff
1. What kind of training do the staff have?
2. What are the ratios of children to adults?
3. What are the activities offered?
4. What is the schedule like?
5. What is the discipline policy?
6. How does the staff handle transitions, such as drop-offs and pick-ups? What are the times like?
7. How often are parents updated on their child's progress?
8. What are your staff's credentials and experience with early childhood education?
Questions to Ask About Programming and Curriculum
1. What type of curriculum do you use?
2. How do you tailor the curriculum to each individual child's needs?
3. What type of activities do you include in your program?
4. How do you encourage social, emotional, and cognitive development?
5. How often do you review and update your curriculum?
6. How often do children go outside?
Questions to Ask About Safety and Security
1. What are the security procedures in place?
2. How are visitors screened and monitored?
3. How are safety hazards addressed and prevented?
4. Are there fire drills and other safety procedures in place?
5. What is the policy on medication administration?
6. Who is authorized to administer medication to children in care?
Questions to Ask About Nutrition
1. What are the centre's policies on nutrition and food?
2. What type of food do they serve?
3. How often do they change up the menu?
5. Is there a variety of food offered, or is it mostly the same thing every day?
6. How well do they cater to special dietary needs?
7. What are the snacks offered throughout the day?
8. Is there vegetarian/ vegan/ halal options?
Questions to Ask About Fees and Payment Options
1. What are the monthly payments?
2. Is there a discounted rate if there is more than one child (siblings) attending the centre?
3. Is there a deposit amount required to keep my child's spot until they attend full-time?
4. Is your centre part of the Federal subsidy which will reduce payments each month?
5. Are there late pick-up fees or charges for missed days?
We hope our checklist has given you some insight into what to ask when looking for the right child care centre for your family. Be sure to take the time and do your research, it’s worthwhile investing in finding a child care centre that meets all of your child's needs and provides them with a safe and stimulating environment where they can thrive.