Parent asking questions to a childcare provider during a daycare interview.

Questions to Ask At A Daycare Interview: A Parent’s Guide to Finding the Perfect Fit

Navigating the Daycare Decision: Your Guide to the Perfect Fit

Choosing the right daycare is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a parent. It’s about more than just finding a safe place for your child—it’s about choosing an environment where they can learn, grow, and feel nurtured. But with so many options out there, how do you know which one is truly the best fit?

Learn from an Experienced Childcare Provider

As a former home daycare provider, I’ve seen firsthand what makes a great childcare environment—and what raises red flags. Over the years, I’ve toured facilities, spoken with countless parents, and witnessed both exceptional and concerning practices. I know the questions that matter, and I want to help you feel confident as you begin your search.

What You’ll Learn in This Guide

Choosing the right childcare provider can feel overwhelming, but knowing the right questions to ask will make your decision easier. This guide will walk you through key daycare interview questions to help you assess:

✔️ How to evaluate a daycare’s reputation through parent reviews and references
✔️ What red flags to watch for when touring a daycare
✔️ How to ask the right questions to get a full picture of the care your child will receive

By the end, you'll have a clear roadmap to confidently choose a safe, nurturing daycare that fits your family's needs.

Bonus: Download our free daycare interview checklist to make sure you don’t miss any critical questions!

Before we dive in, grab your free checklist of must-ask daycare questions! It’s designed to help you stay organized and ensure you don’t miss any key details.

Checklist of essential questions to ask during a daycare tour.

Why Choosing the Right Daycare Provider Matters

Selecting the right daycare provider is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make as a parent. It’s not just about finding a safe place for your child while you work—it’s about choosing a second home, a space where they’ll feel secure, supported, and encouraged to grow.

The Impact of Early Childhood Care

The daycare environment plays a major role in shaping your child’s emotional, social, and intellectual development. In fact, early experiences in childcare can directly influence how children learn, form relationships, and navigate the world around them.

Emotional Development – A nurturing environment helps children build confidence, regulate emotions, and develop trust in caregivers.
Social Development – Play-based learning and peer interactions teach essential communication, cooperation, and problem-solving skills.
Intellectual Growth – Engaging activities stimulate curiosity and lay the foundation for lifelong learning.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, early childcare environments are pivotal for emotional development and lifelong learning.

The Importance of a Strong Parent-Provider Connection

A great daycare provider isn’t just someone who watches your child—they become a trusted part of your child’s daily life. Many children spend 10+ hours a day in daycare, making it their second home. Because of this, it’s essential that parents feel a strong, positive connection with their provider.

When touring or interviewing a daycare, first ask yourself:

  • Does the provider make me feel welcomed and heard?
  • Do I feel confident leaving my child in their care?
  • Is the space clean, engaging, and well-maintained?
  • Will my child feel safe, nurtured, and happy here?

The right daycare provider will not only create a fun and enriching space for your child but will also support you as a parent. You should feel like you’re working as a team, ensuring the best experience for your little one.

Peace of Mind for Parents

Choosing the right daycare means peace of mind—knowing that your child is in a safe, loving, and developmentally supportive environment. When you find the right fit, daycare becomes more than just childcare; it becomes a place where your child thrives, learns, and builds meaningful connections.


Private vs. Licensed Daycare: What’s the Difference?

When searching for the right daycare, you'll come across both private (unlicensed) and licensed providers. While the word “unlicensed” might sound concerning at first, it’s important to understand that many private home daycare providers operate at the same—if not higher—standards as licensed facilities. The key is knowing what to look for and asking the right questions.

Understanding the Difference

  • Licensed Daycares (both home-based and center-based) are regulated by the government. They must meet strict requirements for health, safety, caregiver training, and child-to-provider ratios. Licensed providers are regularly inspected and must adhere to state regulations.
  • Private Home Daycares are independently run by caregivers who may not be required to have a formal license, depending on local laws. However, many private providers voluntarily follow the same safety, cleanliness, and curriculum standards as licensed daycares.

At the end of the day, the best choice comes down to how a provider makes you feel, the environment they create, and the level of care they offer. Some private providers take exceptional pride in their daycare because it’s their personal business, and they go above and beyond for the children in their care.

Benefits and Considerations

Daycare Type Benefits Considerations
Licensed Daycare - Regular inspections ensure compliance with safety and health regulations. - May have less flexibility in policies (e.g., sick days, holidays, hours).
(Home & Center-Based) - Structured curriculum with educational activities. - Higher staff turnover in center-based care.
- Staff may have early childhood education training. - Larger class sizes may mean less one-on-one attention.
Private Home Daycare - Often a smaller, home-like environment. - Not always inspected or regulated, so parents must do their own research.
- More flexibility with schedules, including early drop-offs or later pickups. - Fewer backup caregivers if the provider is sick or on vacation.
- Providers tend to be highly invested in quality care since it’s their own business. - Rules and standards vary, so thorough interviews are important.


How to Make the Best Choice

Regardless of licensing, the most important factors are how you feel about the provider, the environment, and the level of care they offer. Here are some key things to check:

  • Trust Your Instincts – Does the provider make you feel comfortable? Do they answer your questions openly?
  • Observe the Environment – Is it clean, engaging, and safe? Does it feel warm and welcoming?
  • Ask About Policies – What are their rules on safety, discipline, and daily routines?
  • Know the Legal Limits – Every area has rules on how many children a daycare provider can care for. Be sure the provider follows those regulations.

Whether you choose a licensed daycare or a private home daycare, the right provider should feel like an extension of your family—creating a safe, loving, and enriching space where your child can thrive.

    Childcare Provider Qualifications and Training: What Really Matters?

    When choosing a daycare provider, one of the most important things to consider is their qualifications and training. However, qualifications don’t just come in the form of a degree or certification—experience, dedication, and passion all play a huge role in the quality of care a provider offers.

    Why Training and Experience Matter

    While formal education in early childhood development can be beneficial, it’s not the only indicator of a great childcare provider. Many providers, especially home daycare owners, develop their skills through hands-on experience, research, and a deep commitment to creating engaging, nurturing environments. A provider who takes the time to plan activities, understand child development, and continuously learn is just as valuable as someone with a formal degree.

    That said, some training is essential. First aid and CPR certification are non-negotiable when it comes to safety. In an emergency, a provider must be able to act quickly and effectively. Additionally, emotional maturity is key—caring for children requires patience, empathy, and strong communication skills.

    Questions to Ask About Training and Experience:

    • Do you have current first aid and CPR certification?
    • How do you plan learning activities and experiences for the children in your care?
    • What experience do you have working with children of different ages?
    • How do you stay informed about child development and best practices?

    The Value of Passion Over Paperwork

    Education can be expensive, and many childcare providers don’t make high wages—especially private home daycare owners. They do this work out of passion, whether it’s because they love working with children or because it allows them to stay home with their own. A provider who puts time and effort into their program—whether by researching activities, creating engaging spaces, or adapting to children’s individual needs—is often just as qualified as someone with a formal degree.

    The best childcare providers are those who are actively engaged in what they do. Where there is effort, there is passion, and that passion is what makes a daycare truly exceptional.

    Infants playing in a safe daycare setting.

     

    Safety, Policies, and Procedures: The Foundation of a Well-Run Daycare

    When choosing a daycare, safety should always be a top priority—but true safety goes beyond just emergency drills and locked doors. A provider who has well-documented policies and a clear plan for handling day-to-day challenges demonstrates professionalism, preparedness, and a commitment to quality care.

    Why a Strong Safety Plan Matters

    A well-thought-out safety plan shows that a provider has considered potential risks and has proactive measures in place. This level of preparedness not only ensures children’s well-being but also reflects the provider’s dedication to their role. Parents should expect to see safety policies clearly outlined in the Parent Handbook, a document that families keep for reference at home.

    Key Safety Questions to Ask:

    • What emergency drills do you practice, and how often?
    • Do you have a written emergency preparedness plan?
    • How do you handle medical emergencies, injuries, or allergic reactions?
    • What safety measures do you have in place for both indoor and outdoor play areas?
    • What is your policy for pick-up and drop-off to ensure only authorized individuals can take my child?

    Policies and Procedures: Setting Clear Expectations

    A professional childcare provider should have well-defined policies in place to create consistency and avoid misunderstandings. These policies ensure that both parents and providers are on the same page when it comes to expectations, discipline, and daily routines.

    Important Policies to Look For:

    • Parent Handbook – This should outline all daycare policies, including safety procedures, illness policies, discipline approaches, and communication expectations.
    • Health and Safety Guidelines – Clear policies on cleaning, illness management, and hygiene practices. As well as clear outlined procedures for emergency situations that may arise while your child is in their care.
    • Behavior and Discipline Policy – Parents should understand how the provider handles conflicts, tantrums, and challenging behaviors.

    Emotional Maturity in a Childcare Provider

    Working in childcare is rewarding, but it can also be a high-stress environment. Providers must manage multiple children’s emotions and behaviors while maintaining patience and composure. A caregiver’s ability to regulate their own emotions directly impacts how they support children through difficult moments.

    Parents should ask:

    • How do you handle challenging behaviors like hitting or biting?
    • What is your approach when a child has a tantrum?
    • Do you use time-outs, redirection, or another method?
    • How do you support children in learning emotional regulation skills?

    Children learn emotional regulation by watching the adults around them. A provider who can stay calm and guide a child through big emotions teaches valuable life skills. A daycare should be a place where children feel heard, supported, and safe—not one where discipline is reactive or punitive.

    Why Policies Matter

    A provider with clear, well-thought-out policies shows they take their role seriously. These policies protect the provider’s business, ensure a safe environment for children, and help parents feel confident in their choice. When a provider is upfront about how they handle safety, discipline, and communication, it reflects a level of professionalism that every parent should expect.

    Additional Questions for Parents to Ask:

    • Do you have a parent handbook I can review?
    • What is your policy on illness, late pick-ups, and discipline?
    • How do you communicate important updates with parents?
    • What steps do you take to ensure children's emotional and physical safety on a daily basis?

    Daily Routines and Activities: What Your Child Will Experience Each Day

    When choosing a daycare, one of the most important factors to consider is the daily routine. Your child will likely spend 8 to 10 hours a day in this environment, so it's essential that their daily experiences align with your family's values and expectations.

    A well-planned daily schedule gives children a sense of security, helps them transition smoothly between activities, and ensures they get a balanced mix of learning, play, and rest. But every daycare operates differently. Some follow a structured, school-like schedule with planned lessons and activities, while others take a more relaxed, home-like approach with flexible routines. The key is finding what works best for your child.

    Before You Even Book a Tour: Key Questions to Ask About Daily Schedules

    Before setting up an interview with a potential daycare provider, take some time to reflect on what kind of environment you envision for your child. Then, ask yourself:

    • Do I prefer a structured, school-like setting or a more relaxed, home-based environment?
    • How much outdoor playtime do I want my child to have?
    • Is free play important to me, or do I want most activities to be teacher-guided?
    • Do I want a daycare that includes academics, or am I more interested in social and emotional development?

    Once you’ve considered these questions, you’ll be in a better position to ask specific questions when researching daycare options:

    • What does a typical day look like at your daycare?
    • How do you balance structured learning with free play?
    • What types of activities will my child participate in, and how do they support learning and development?
    • How do you handle naps, meals, and quiet time?
    • What is your approach to discipline and behavioral guidance?

    A quality daycare should be able to provide a clear outline of their daily schedule and explain how it supports children's development.

    Cozy home daycare environment with educational toys.

    Understanding Different Childcare Philosophies

    Not all daycares operate the same way, and it’s helpful to understand the fundamental differences in childcare approaches before making a decision. Here are a few common ones:

    Montessori: Based on self-directed learning, Montessori classrooms encourage independence and hands-on exploration. Children choose activities that interest them within a structured environment, fostering decision-making and problem-solving skills.

    Play-Based Learning: This approach emphasizes learning through play rather than direct instruction. Teachers guide children through hands-on activities that build social, emotional, and cognitive skills in a fun and engaging way.

    Reggio Emilia: A child-led philosophy that encourages curiosity and creativity through project-based learning. This approach values collaboration between children, teachers, and parents.

    HighScope: Focuses on active learning, where children plan, carry out, and reflect on their activities. The daily schedule includes a consistent routine with time for small-group work, individual exploration, and teacher-guided activities.

    Anji Play: Originating from China, this philosophy is centered on "True Play," where children engage in self-determined play using simple tools made from natural materials. The approach emphasizes love, risk, joy, engagement, and reflection. 

    Traditional/Academic-Based: Some daycares follow a more structured, school-like approach with set lessons, structured play, and a focus on early literacy and math skills.

    There’s no right or wrong philosophy—it all depends on what feels like the best fit for your child.

    What to Look for in Daily Activities

    A well-balanced daycare schedule should include a mix of:
    • Structured learning (circle time, themed activities, story time)
    • Free play (both indoors and outdoors)
    • Creative activities (arts and crafts, music, dramatic play)
    • Physical movement (outdoor play, gross motor activities, dance)
    • Social interactions (group activities, collaborative play, learning to share and take turns)
    • Rest and quiet time (nap time or a designated quiet space)
    Ask the provider how they ensure a mix of these activities throughout the day.

    Making the Best Choice for Your Child

    Choosing a daycare is a deeply personal decision, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some parents thrive on structure and prefer a daycare with a clearly defined schedule. Others want their child in an environment that feels like a second home, with more flexibility and child-led activities.

    By asking the right questions and understanding different childcare approaches, you can find a daycare that truly aligns with your values and gives your child the best possible start.

    Trusted Resources for Early Childhood Development:

     

      Nutrition and Meal Planning: Fueling Your Child’s Growth and Learning

      Child care provider feeding infant


      Good nutrition is the foundation of a child’s growth, development, and daily energy levels. Since your child will likely eat most of their meals and snacks at daycare, it’s important to understand how meals are planned, prepared, and served.

      If the daycare you’re considering is licensed, whether it’s a center or a home daycare, they must follow specific meal guidelines set by local or state regulations. These typically include requirements for balanced meals with appropriate servings of fruits, vegetables, protein, dairy, and whole grains. Private home daycares, on the other hand, have more flexibility in their meal offerings, which can be a consideration for parents who prefer a more customized approach to nutrition.

      As you explore daycare options, here are some key factors to consider when it comes to food and nutrition.

      Key Questions to Ask About Meals and Nutrition

      Before enrolling your child in a daycare, be sure to ask:
      • What meals and snacks are provided throughout the day?
      • Do you follow any specific nutrition guidelines or meal plans?
      • Are meals prepared on-site?
      • How do you accommodate children with food allergies, cultural dietary restrictions, or special dietary needs?
      • Do you offer milk or other beverages, and what are the options?
      If you're interviewing a home daycare, you may want to ask the provider what the kids do while she is preparing the meals?

      A high-quality daycare should be able to provide clear answers and ideally have a written meal plan that you can review. Some daycares post their weekly or monthly menus, which can give you a good sense of how varied and nutritious the meals are.

      Fresh, Balanced Meals for Growing Bodies

      Children need a variety of nutrient-rich foods to fuel their energy and development throughout the day. Ask how the daycare ensures meals are well-balanced, whether they prioritize fresh, whole foods, and if they limit processed or sugary items.

      Some home daycares take a home-cooked approach, offering comforting, made-from-scratch meals, while larger daycare centers may rely on catered meals. Both options can work well, but the key is to ensure the meals provide essential nutrients for growing children.

      If your child has dietary restrictions, such as allergies, religious dietary needs, or a vegetarian diet, make sure the daycare is able to accommodate them safely. Some providers may allow parents to bring meals from home if the daycare’s menu doesn’t align with their child’s needs.

      Building Healthy Eating Habits at Daycare

      Daycare isn’t just a place where children eat—it’s a place where they form lifelong habits around food. Some providers actively teach nutrition through hands-on activities, such as:
      • Letting children help with simple meal prep (stirring, pouring, or setting the table)
      • Offering a variety of new foods and encouraging kids to try them
      • Talking about where food comes from and why different foods help our bodies grow
      • Using mealtimes as an opportunity to reinforce manners, patience, and social interaction
      Ask how the daycare introduces new foods, handles picky eating, and whether they take a firm stance on finishing meals or allow children to eat at their own pace.

      The Mealtime Experience: More Than Just Eating

      Mealtimes at daycare are about more than just food—they’re a time for children to practice independence, socialize, and develop a positive relationship with eating. When evaluating a daycare, observe how they approach mealtimes:
      • Are children encouraged to feed themselves and try new foods?
      • Do caregivers eat with the children, modeling healthy eating habits?
      • Is there a calm, positive atmosphere during meals?
      • Are children given enough time to eat, or is it rushed?
      A daycare that fosters a relaxed and positive mealtime environment can help children build confidence around eating and develop healthy attitudes toward food.

      Finding a Mealtime Approach That Works for Your Child

      Whether you prefer a daycare with structured meal plans or one with a more flexible, home-like approach to food, what matters most is that your child is getting the nutrition they need in a safe and supportive environment.

      By asking thoughtful questions and observing how meals are handled, you can ensure that your child’s daycare experience supports both their physical growth and their relationship with food in a positive way.


      Trusted Resources for Child Nutrition:

        Parents on a tour asking questions to a childcare provider.

        Communication Between Parents and Providers: What to Expect

        Clear and consistent communication between daycare providers and parents is essential to ensuring a smooth experience for both the child and the family. A provider's communication style will directly impact how informed you feel about your child's day, their progress, and any concerns that may arise. Before choosing a daycare, it’s important to understand how updates and discussions will take place.

        Key Questions to Ask About Communication:

        • How do you update parents on their child’s day?
        • What methods do you use to communicate important concerns or milestones?
        • If my child is struggling with something (behavior, eating, sleep, social skills), how do you let me know?

        A daycare provider should have a reliable system for keeping parents informed, whether that’s through verbal updates at pickup, daily reports, text messages, or a communication app. Understanding how often and in what format you’ll receive information will help set expectations from the start.

        Handling Challenges and Concerns

        Open communication is especially important when challenges arise. Whether it’s difficulty adjusting, behavioral concerns, or developmental milestones, parents need to feel confident that their provider will address issues honestly and proactively.

        Ask the Provider:

        • How do you communicate with parents if concerns arise?
        • What is your approach to handling behavioral challenges?
        • Do you involve parents in creating a plan if their child is struggling with something?

        A good provider will be transparent about any concerns and work with parents to find solutions. Whether it's discussing a biting phase, separation anxiety, or social conflicts, the provider’s approach should be respectful and constructive.

        Potty Training: What’s the Daycare’s Role?

        For parents with toddlers, potty training can be a major concern. Since children spend a significant portion of their day at daycare, consistency between home and daycare is key. However, parents should also understand that providers are managing multiple children and may not be able to follow the exact same routine used at home.

        Important Questions to Ask About Potty Training:

        • At what stage do you assist with potty training?
        • Do you require children to be fully trained before moving up to a new group?
        • What methods do you use to help reinforce potty training during the day?
        • Are you able to follow specific approaches, or do you have a set method in place?

        A provider who is willing to support potty training—but also realistic about what they can manage—is key to setting your child up for success. Some daycares may have specific policies about when they begin assisting, whether children need to wear pull-ups, and how they handle accidents. Understanding these details in advance will prevent frustration later on.

        Setting Expectations for Communication

        Every daycare operates differently when it comes to keeping parents in the loop. Some providers give detailed daily reports, while others may only reach out when something significant happens. What matters most is that their communication style matches your expectations.

        Final Questions to Consider:

        • What’s the best way for parents to reach you during the day if needed?
        • How do you handle emergencies or urgent situations?
        • Do you provide daily updates, or only when necessary?

        Choosing a daycare with a communication style that aligns with your needs will ensure a positive and trusting relationship between you and the provider. Knowing what to expect will help you feel connected to your child's experience, even when you’re not there.

            • References and Testimonials: Gaining Insight from Other Parents

            Before making a final decision on a daycare provider, it’s important to hear from other parents who have firsthand experience with the daycare. Personal testimonials can give you a clearer picture of what to expect and help you determine whether the provider is the right fit for your family. While every parent's experience will be different, looking for common themes in feedback can help you make an informed choice.

            Key Questions to Ask About References and Testimonials:

            • Can you provide references from parents whose children are currently enrolled or have attended in the past?
            • What do other parents say about the quality of care, staff, and overall environment?
            • How does the daycare handle communication, discipline, and emergencies?
            • Are there any online reviews or ratings available?
            • What are the most common positives and concerns mentioned in feedback from other families?

              Children engaged in activities at a daycare center.

            Seeking Out Parent Feedback

            Talking to Other Parents

            If the provider offers references, take the opportunity to reach out and ask specific questions. Parents who have firsthand experience can share insights into the daily routines, staff interactions, and how issues like illness, behavior challenges, or accidents are handled. If a provider hesitates to offer references, that could be a red flag.

            Another great way to gather feedback is through local parenting groups. Many parents find home daycares through community-based Facebook groups or neighborhood forums. Don’t be afraid to ask in local moms' groups about the daycare you’re considering. Other parents can provide valuable insights or even recommend hidden gems you might not have found otherwise.

            Checking Online Reviews and Social Media Presence

            Parent testimonials are helpful, but online reviews give you a bigger picture of a daycare’s reputation. Before making a decision, check Google Reviews, Yelp, and local childcare directories to see what other families have experienced.

            What to Look For:

            • Do parents consistently praise the same aspects (warm staff, clean facility, great communication)?
            • Are there recurring complaints (high staff turnover, lack of structure, safety concerns)?
            • How does the daycare respond to negative feedback? A thoughtful response can indicate a provider that values transparency and improvement.

            Keep in mind that one negative review doesn’t mean a daycare is bad, just like one glowing review isn’t a guarantee. Instead, look for patterns to get a true sense of the daycare’s strengths and weaknesses.

            Another useful strategy is checking if the daycare has a Facebook page. A well-maintained page can give you a glimpse into their daily activities, special events, and overall atmosphere. How often are they posting? Are they engaging with parents? A provider who shares regular updates about what the kids are doing might also be one who values communication and transparency.

            Watching for Red Flags in Daycare Openings

            How to Spot Red Flags in Daycare Availability
            If you’re considering home daycare providers, start monitoring local parenting groups and childcare forums a few months before you need care. This will help you notice trends in daycare openings and spot potential red flags.

            Potential Warning Signs:

            • A daycare that frequently advertises open spots without filling them (this may indicate low demand or parent dissatisfaction).
            • High turnover of staff or families leaving after short periods.
            • A lack of word-of-mouth recommendations—great providers often fill up without much advertising.

            On the other hand, top-rated daycare providers often stay fully booked through referrals alone. If you find a daycare with great reviews but no open spots, get on the waitlist early—it’s a sign they’re doing something right!

            Trusting Your Instincts

            Trust Your Instincts—They Matter!
            You’ve done your research, gathered references, and checked reviews. Now, ask yourself:

            • Does this daycare align with my parenting values and expectations?
            • Am I comfortable with the feedback I’ve received?
            • Have I noticed any red flags that make me second-guess my decision?

            If a daycare has positive reviews, strong word-of-mouth recommendations, and a nurturing environment, you’re likely making a great choice. But if doubts keep surfacing, it’s okay to keep looking—finding the right daycare is worth the extra effort.

              Questions to Ask About Infant Care: Ensuring Your Baby’s Safety and Comfort

              Childcare provider engaging in activities with children at a daycare.


              Choosing a daycare for your infant comes with unique considerations. Babies require specialized care, close attention, and an environment that prioritizes their safety and well-being. Asking the right questions will help you determine whether a daycare is the right fit for your baby’s needs.

              What is your approach to feeding infants?

              Whether you breastfeed, formula-feed, or use a combination of both, it’s important to understand how the daycare accommodates different feeding routines. Ask about their feeding schedule, how they handle breast milk storage and warming, and whether they are comfortable following a parent-led feeding approach. If your baby is transitioning to solids, find out what role the daycare plays in that process.

              • Do you feed infants on demand or on a set schedule?
              • How do you handle breast milk and formula preparation?
              • If I am providing breast milk, how is it stored and labeled?
              • Do you support baby-led weaning or purees when transitioning to solids?

              What are your diapering and hygiene procedures?

              Frequent diaper changes and proper hygiene are crucial for an infant’s comfort and health. Ask about how often diapers are changed, whether they track diaper changes, and how they prevent diaper rashes. If your baby uses cloth diapers, confirm whether the daycare accommodates them and how they handle storage.

              • How often are diapers checked and changed?
              • Do you use disposable or cloth diapers? If both, how do you handle cloth diapering?
              • What steps do you take to prevent diaper rashes?
              • How do you sanitize diaper-changing areas between uses?

              What safe sleep practices do you follow?

              Ensuring that your baby sleeps in a safe environment is non-negotiable. A quality daycare will follow safe sleep guidelines set by health authorities, such as placing infants on their backs to sleep and using cribs free of pillows, blankets, and stuffed animals. It’s also important to ask about their approach to nap schedules and how they soothe babies to sleep.

              • Do you follow safe sleep guidelines, such as placing babies on their backs to sleep?
              • What kind of sleep environment do you provide? (Cribs, cots, pack-and-plays?)
              • How do you handle babies who struggle with naps or need extra soothing?
              • Do you allow sleep sacks or pacifiers?
              • How do you monitor infants while they sleep?

              How do you care for sick infants and manage health concerns?

              Infants are more vulnerable to illness, so it’s important to understand the daycare’s policies on handling sick children, administering medication, and preventing the spread of germs. Many daycares have strict guidelines on when a sick baby can attend and when they must stay home.

              • What symptoms require an infant to stay home?
              • How do you notify parents if a baby becomes unwell during the day?
              • Are staff trained to administer infant medication if needed?
              • What sanitation practices do you have in place to reduce the spread of illness?

              How do you ensure individual attention for each infant?

              Infants need close supervision and one-on-one care throughout the day. Ask about the daycare’s caregiver-to-infant ratio and how they ensure that each baby gets the attention they need.

              • What is your caregiver-to-infant ratio?
              • How do you ensure each baby receives individualized care?
              • What does a typical day look like for an infant in your care?

              By asking detailed and thoughtful questions, you’ll gain a better understanding of how a daycare supports infants' needs and whether it aligns with your expectations. Taking the time to research and ask about these key areas will help you choose a safe, nurturing environment for your baby.

              Childcare provider engaging in music with children at a daycare.

              Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Daycare with Confidence

              Selecting a daycare for your child is a significant decision that requires careful research, thoughtful questions, and trust in your instincts. By assessing the provider’s qualifications, daily routines, safety practices, and communication style, you can determine whether a daycare aligns with your family's values and expectations. Seeking feedback from other parents, reading online reviews, and observing how the daycare responds to concerns can provide further insight into the quality of care.

              For infant care, ensuring a nurturing environment with safe sleep practices, proper hygiene, and individualized attention is essential. Asking detailed questions about feeding, diapering, and health policies will help you feel confident that your baby’s needs will be met with care and professionalism.

              Ultimately, the right daycare will not only provide a safe and structured environment but also foster meaningful relationships, open communication, and a sense of community for both you and your child. Trust your research, listen to your instincts, and take the time to find a provider who truly feels like the best fit for your family. Your child’s early experiences shape their development, and choosing a loving, well-managed daycare sets the foundation for a happy and healthy start.


              Back to blog

              Leave a comment