What to ask when touring a childcare centre

Children are so precious, it’s vital you leave them in the care of people you trust. Here at Edge, we nurture children, keep them safe and help them to thrive. Book a tour and take a look around.

Choosing a childcare centre for your little one can be a big decision. Touring a childcare centre is a really good way to get a feel for the service and to see whether it’s the right fit for your child. You can check out the facilities and the playground and watch the staff in action. Read on for our suggestions about the types of questions to ask a potential childcare centre.

Health and safety questions

Children’s health and safety should be paramount, so check that you’re happy with the answers you receive to the following questions:

• What are the centre’s health and safety protocols?
• How does the centre handle medical emergencies and administer medication?
• What is the staff-to-child ratio and how does it ensure individual attention and safety?
• What measures are in place to prevent and handle illnesses or accidents?

Staff qualifications and training

The key questions to ask when choosing a childcare centre are about staff qualifications because you want to be sure your children are being cared for by people with some training. You may like to ask:

• What qualifications and training do the staff members have?
• Do you have qualified teachers in your classrooms?
• How does the centre ensure ongoing professional development for its staff?
• What is the staff turnover rate, and how does it affect continuity of care?

Curriculum and learning environment

Check that the centre follows the government-approved curriculum to ensure your child reaches their developmental milestones. Questions to ask a potential childcare centre include:

• Are you an approved childcare provider by the government?
• Do you offer a government-approved early learning program?
• What is the centre’s educational philosophy and curriculum?
• How is the curriculum tailored to different age groups and developmental stages?
• How are activities and learning experiences adapted to meet individual needs?
• How can you help my child prepare for school?

Communication with parents

Open and transparent relationships between the childcare centre, educators, parents and guardians is important for a cohesive early childhood experience. Questions to ask when choosing a childcare centre may be:

• How does the centre communicate with parents about their child’s progress and daily activities?
• Are there regular parent-teacher meetings or updates?
• How does the centre handle parent concerns and feedback?
• How can I be involved in my child’s growth and early development?
• Do you offer a parental portal with updates on my child?

Daily routines and activities

Routines help children to settle and regulate their emotions, so it can be handy for parents to also understand what a day at childcare may look like. Useful questions to ask a potential child care centre include:

• What is a typical daily schedule like for children at the centre?
• How are rest times, meals, and play integrated into the day?
• How long will my child have to play outside each day?
• What will your child be eating each day?
• Are meals provided?
• Can I see the menu?
• What types of extracurricular activities or special programs are offered?
• How often are children checked on at naptime?

Childcare facilities and environment

If you’re wondering how do I prepare for my daycare tour? Remember to ask the childcare provider about their facility and environment. Ask:

• What are the centre’s cleanliness and maintenance standards?
• Are the facilities child-proofed and safe?
• What are the indoor and outdoor play areas like, and how are they used?

Policies and procedures

Childcare centres should be able to provide copies of their policies and procedures. You would like to ask about:

• What are the centre’s policies on discipline and behaviour management?
• What is the procedure for enrolling a child and what documents are required?
• How does the centre handle absences, vacations and drop-off/pick-up procedures?
• What are the procedures if my child is sick at childcare?
• What are the processes around toileting?
• How does the childcare centre practice sun safety for outdoor play?
• How are allergies managed in your centre?
• Is there a minimum requirement of days per week?

Cost and finances

Questions to ask a potential child care centre include:

• What are the tuition fees, and what do they cover?
• Are there any additional costs for activities, materials, or meals?
• What is the policy on financial assistance, childcare subsidy, and discounts?

Tips for touring a childcare centre

If you’re unsure what questions to ask at a childcare tour, print off this article and take it with you. You’re also welcome to take notes.

Book a tour at Edge Early Learning

You’re more than welcome to book a tour at your local Edge Early Learning Centre so you can explore what we offer in person. We’d love to see you.