Looking for quality childcare is very different for each parent as everyone's parenting values are different. One thing for sure is that we all feel the same, we wish for an environment that our children are protected, loved and safe. We want to find a childcare that will give our children the ability to thrive both physically, emotionally and intellectually. We want to ensure that the person who is providing care for our children are professional and have patience and passion for what they thoroughly love to do.

What Questions should you ask when choosing a childcare?

Q1. Is the centre licensed?

The licence should be displayed on the parent information board with the parent handbook.

You should also ask for the following information during the tour: when was the last licence inspection report from Public Health, Ministry of Education, Third party playground inspection, Fire Safety, Water lead test. All the above information should be readily available.

Q2. Inquire about food menu and allergies, anaphylaxis? How they manage cross contamination.

Q3. Ask how often they clean the center and if there is a 3^rd company supports with cleaning of the facility.

4- Find out about the educator’s educational background and qualification? Find out what does the childcare does to help the staff to self-regulate and continue training.

5- What are the teacher-to-child ratios?

6- Ask about the discipline policy?

7- How do they communicate with parents?

8- What are the policies and childcare philosophies?

9- What learning philosophy does the centre use?

10- How do they support the child and family when transitioning into the centre?

11- How do they keep the family updated on the child progress or needs daily?

12- Do they have a sick day policy?

13- What is the fee and cancelation policy?

14- How do they handle parental concern?

15- What makes them unique compared to other childcare facilities?

16- Do they help with toilet training?

17- How do they support a child who is a picky eater?

18- Where do children nap and what do they do when a child cannot fall sleep?

19- What practices do they use to eliminate bullying in childcare?

20- Do they have secure doors and who has access to the building?

How early should you start looking for childcare?

The best time to start looking for childcare is at least 4 months before the date you wish to start childcare. Some start 6 months to a year before. If you like to research, it is best practice to give yourself a good 6 months before finalizing your decision?

When should you start childcare?

That is a personal choice – it is recommended if you are on maternity leave and planning to go back to work to start transitioning the baby and your family at least 1 month before starting your work.

It is best to start with part-time transition for the first 3 weeks with 3 days a week. In the last week before going back to work, follow your actual work schedule. This will give your child and yourself the opportunity to slowly start the transition to the new environment.

If your child is older and a new baby is joining the family, it is important that your family starts the transition 3 months before the birth of the new addition to the house. Starting with part-time for the first month and after moving to full time. This gives the child the mental ability to slowly and positively detach themselves and become comfortable with their new environment. 

For more information, please visit www.inventivekidz.com

Authored by:

Rose Morsh
RECE, Parent Practitioner,
Parent Coordinator, Family Mediator,
Child Voice Practitioner, 
and Collaborative Family Law Parent Expert