6 Tips for Selecting the Right Daycare Centre

The first 5 to 7 years of your child’s life are critical for their cognitive and psychological development. The interactions and experiences they have during this period shape their learning, communication skills, and social interactions. Therefore, choosing the right daycare centre is vital to ensure your child’s well-being and development. To help you make an informed decision, here is a guide with essential questions to ask when selecting a daycare centre:

Safety and Cleanliness

• Is the daycare centre licensed and compliant with provincial standards?
• When was the last health and safety inspection?
• How long has the daycare been in operation?
• What qualifications and training do the caregivers have, including first aid and CPR?
• What is the staff-to-child ratio for different age groups, such as infants and toddlers?
• How does the center handle staff illnesses and child illnesses, including allergic reactions?
• Are sick children required to stay home for a specified period?
• Do you require proof of immunizations?
• What safety measures are in place, including fire safety and COVID-19 precautions?

Rates and Fees

• What are the full costs, payment schedule, and any additional fees?
• Is there flexibility in enrollment, and are there different rates for full-time and part-time enrollment?
• What are the accepted payment methods?
• Do rates vary based on the child’s age, and are there sibling discounts?
• Are government subsidies accepted?
• What is the daycare’s refund policy in case you need to remove your child from the program?

Nutrition

• What is the daycare’s meal and snack schedule, and are balanced meals provided?
• Are children allowed to bring food from home, and are there any restrictions on items?
• How is breast milk stored, and can mothers visit to breastfeed?
• Does the daycare accommodate children with special dietary needs?

Daycare Activities

• What daily activities are planned for the children?
• Is there a balance of indoor and outdoor activities, and how are outdoor activities supervised?
• Are electronic devices allowed, and is there a limit on screen time?
• Are there scheduled nap times, and where do the children sleep?
• Do you encourage family involvement in learning activities?

Disciplinary Policy

• How does the daycare handle disciplinary situations with children who are upset or unruly?
• How are incidents like biting or hitting addressed, and what methods are used for discipline?

Parent Communication

• What communication methods does the daycare use to update parents on their child’s activities throughout the day?
• How can parents check on their child if necessary?
• Will you receive information on your child’s milestone achievements during the day?

Selecting the right daycare centre is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your child’s development and well-being. By asking these important questions and carefully considering the answers, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your aspirations for your child’s growth and happiness. If you have any questions about selecting the right daycare centre for your child, please feel free to reach out to Renaissance Academy and our staff is more than happy to answer your questions.