Questions to Ask on Daycare Tour
Essential questions to ask during a daycare tour to ensure your child will be safe, happy, and well-cared for.
1What is your staff-to-child ratio, and how is it maintained throughout the day?
Click to see why this works
What is your staff-to-child ratio, and how is it maintained throughout the day?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Crucial for understanding the level of individual attention your child will receive.
2What are the qualifications and training requirements for your staff?
Click to see why this works
What are the qualifications and training requirements for your staff?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Important for ensuring your child is cared for by qualified professionals.
3What is your policy on sick children, and how do you handle illness?
Click to see why this works
What is your policy on sick children, and how do you handle illness?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Essential for understanding health protocols and preventing the spread of illness.
4What are your safety protocols and emergency procedures?
Click to see why this works
What are your safety protocols and emergency procedures?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Crucial for understanding how your child's safety is protected.
5What is your policy on discipline and behavior management?
Click to see why this works
What is your policy on discipline and behavior management?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Important for understanding how behavioral issues are handled and ensuring consistency with your values.
6What are your policies on communication with parents?
Click to see why this works
What are your policies on communication with parents?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Essential for understanding how you'll stay informed about your child's day and progress.
7What are your policies on food and nutrition, and how are meals handled?
Click to see why this works
What are your policies on food and nutrition, and how are meals handled?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Important for understanding your child's nutritional needs and any dietary restrictions.
8What are your policies on naps and rest time?
Click to see why this works
What are your policies on naps and rest time?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Crucial for understanding your child's sleep schedule and rest needs.
9What are your policies on outdoor play and physical activity?
Click to see why this works
What are your policies on outdoor play and physical activity?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Important for understanding your child's physical development and exercise needs.
10What are your policies on learning activities and educational programs?
Click to see why this works
What are your policies on learning activities and educational programs?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Essential for understanding your child's educational development and learning opportunities.
11What are your policies on special needs and accommodations?
Click to see why this works
What are your policies on special needs and accommodations?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Important for understanding how your child's individual needs will be met.
12What are your policies on field trips and special activities?
Click to see why this works
What are your policies on field trips and special activities?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Crucial for understanding your child's enrichment opportunities and safety during outings.
13What are your policies on parent involvement and volunteering?
Click to see why this works
What are your policies on parent involvement and volunteering?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Important for understanding how you can be involved in your child's daycare experience.
14What are your policies on holidays and special events?
Click to see why this works
What are your policies on holidays and special events?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Essential for understanding how holidays and special occasions are handled.
15What are your policies on backup care and emergency situations?
Click to see why this works
What are your policies on backup care and emergency situations?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Important for understanding what happens when the daycare is closed or unavailable.
16What are your policies on transportation and pickup/drop-off?
Click to see why this works
What are your policies on transportation and pickup/drop-off?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Crucial for understanding logistics and safety during transportation.
17What are your policies on visitors and security?
Click to see why this works
What are your policies on visitors and security?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Important for understanding security measures and visitor protocols.
18What are your policies on technology and screen time?
Click to see why this works
What are your policies on technology and screen time?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Essential for understanding your child's exposure to technology and screen time.
19What are your policies on cultural diversity and inclusion?
Click to see why this works
What are your policies on cultural diversity and inclusion?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Important for understanding how diversity and inclusion are promoted and supported.
20What are your policies on transitions and helping children adjust?
Click to see why this works
What are your policies on transitions and helping children adjust?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Crucial for understanding how your child will be supported during transitions and adjustments.
Choosing the Right Daycare
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Before the Tour
Research Options
Look at multiple daycares and compare their programs and policies.
Prepare Your Questions
Write down all your questions and concerns before the tour.
Bring Your Child
If possible, bring your child to see how they interact with the environment.
During the Tour
Observe Interactions
Watch how staff interact with children and how children respond.
Ask Follow-up Questions
Don't hesitate to ask for clarification or additional information.
Take Notes
Document important information and your observations.
After the Tour
Compare Options
Compare different daycares based on your observations and needs.
Check References
Ask for references from current or past parents.
Trust Your Instincts
Consider how you felt about the environment and staff interactions.