Daycare Centre

Inquiring About Daycare

Parent: Hello. I’m looking for a daycare for my child. Do you have space available?
Daycare Staff: Hello! How old is your child?

Parent: She is three years old.
Daycare Staff: Yes, we have a preschool program for children ages 2 to 4.

Parent: That’s good. What are your hours?
Daycare Staff: We are open Monday to Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Parent: Do you provide meals and snacks?
Daycare Staff: Yes, we provide breakfast, lunch, and two snacks.

Parent: How much does it cost per month?
Daycare Staff: The fee is $950 per month. Subsidies may be available.

Parent: I see. What documents do you need for registration?
Daycare Staff: We need your child’s health card, immunization record, and emergency contact information.

Parent: Thank you for the information. I will think about it and get back to you.
Daycare Staff: You’re welcome. Please let us know if you have more questions.

When evaluating a daycare centre for your child, it’s crucial to ask questions to ensure that the facility meets your standards for safety, education, and care. Here are some important questions to consider:

Safety and Security

What are the centre’s safety and security measures?
Ask about procedures for securing the premises, such as locked doors, security cameras, and visitor policies.
What are the staff-to-child ratios?
Understand the ratio of caregivers to children to ensure your child will receive adequate attention.
What is the procedure for emergencies and evacuations?
Inquire about emergency plans, evacuation routes, and staff training for handling emergencies.
How is the health and hygiene of the facility maintained?
Ask about cleaning protocols, sanitation practices, and procedures for dealing with illness.

Staff Qualifications

What are the qualifications and training of the staff?
Find out about the education, experience, and certifications of the caregivers.
Are background checks conducted on staff members?
Confirm that staff undergo background checks to ensure safety and security.
How does the centre handle staff turnover?
Ask about staff stability and how new staff are integrated and trained.

Curriculum and Activities

What is the daily schedule or curriculum for the children?
Learn about the structure of the day, including activities, learning opportunities, and free play.
How does the center support different developmental stages?
Inquire about programs and activities tailored to various age groups and developmental needs.
Are there any enrichment programs or extracurricular activities?
Ask if the center offers additional activities, such as music, art, or physical education.

Communication and Parent Involvement

How does the centre communicate with parents?
Find out how updates, notifications, and feedback are shared with parents.
Is there a parent-teacher conference or regular updates on child’s progress?
Inquire about opportunities to discuss your child’s development and progress.
Can parents visit or observe the center?
Ask about the policy for parents visiting or observing the daycare environment.

Nutrition and Meals

What are the meal and snack policies?
Find out if meals and snacks are provided, and if so, what they include and how dietary needs are accommodated.
Can parents bring their own food or special dietary items?
Check if you can provide your child’s meals or snacks if needed.

Health and Wellness

What is the policy on handling illnesses and medication?
Ask about procedures for managing sick children, administering medication, and handling allergies.
Are there specific health and wellness protocols in place?
Inquire about practices related to health checks, illness prevention, and vaccination requirements.

Fees and Enrolment

What are the fees and payment policies?
Get details on tuition, payment schedules, and any additional fees.
Is there a trial period or introductory visit available?
Ask if you can observe or try out the center before committing.
What is the process for enrollment and withdrawal?
Understand the steps for enrolling your child and what is involved if you need to withdraw.

Asking these questions will help you assess whether the daycare centre aligns with your expectations and provides a safe, nurturing environment for your child.