12 Things to Keep in Mind While Searching for Daycare

What is childcare: a lifesaver that allows parents to focus on something other than their beloved child? A fantastic way for their child to socialize and develop skills that are tough to nurture at home? Or something that consistently takes 10% of a married couple’s median income?

Who’s right? Everyone. Despite how we view childcare, one thing is sure: we all want the best for kids. But the million-dollar question remains — how do we find the best childcare?

What exactly should you pay attention to when searching for daycare?

Right off the bat, there’s no perfect, one-size-fits-all recipe for choosing childcare. For one family, budget might be the top concern. Another might prioritize the number of activities and classes their child can take. And some are guided solely by location.

But no matter what your priorities are, there are some universal factors that pop up on every parent’s list — just in a different order. Let’s go through them.

12 practical tips for finding a daycare that fits your child’s need

Searching for daycare can feel tricky, but don’t worry—we’ve got your back. If your concern is how to select a daycare, here are 12 practical pointers to guide you through the exciting journey of finding childcare.

These tips will make it easier to compare your options and pick the perfect fit for your awesome family.

1. Needs and preferences

Where can you start searching for childcare if there are currently almost 100,000 licensed childcare providers in the US? Obviously, you need to set a very clear profile of what you need.

If leaving your child with grandparents or a nanny is not an option, there are always day nurseries and childminders.

Day nurseries are often stand-alone businesses with dedicated buildings and trained staff. Unlike your neighbor, who watches your kid for a couple of hours, nurseries can handle multiple children at a time — of all ages.

Some nurseries are attached to schools or even housed within larger workplaces. They typically operate on school-like hours and cater to various age groups. 

And here’s the kicker: most day nurseries charge by the day, not the hour. This can add up quickly, making them one of the pricier childcare options.

On the flip side, registered childminders offer a more homely touch. They are usually led by independent entrepreneurs and run mini nurseries right from their living rooms. These care for several kids at once — often of varying ages — and might even have their own children in the mix.

Now, rules are rules: a childminder can look after up to six kids under eight, but no more than three can be under five. That’s regulated by the law. 

And, of course, many states require home childminders to have an open-door policy, curriculum standards, home inspections, and more. Just watching SpongeBob all day won’t cut it.

Before you proceed with the childminder option, consult your local state licensing agency or the National Database of Child Care Licensing Regulations. This way, you can ensure you’re dealing with registered specialists, not handing your child over to scammers.

2. Cost and your budget

But there’s more to the story. Each state’s childcare pricing model is unique and can vary wildly.

It’s wise to remember that the monthly price may not be 100% clear from the website. Always ask about fees and any extra charges, like late pickup fees. All the charges may add up to a totally different number.

Some childcare centers have higher tuition because they maintain a lower child-to-teacher ratio, and that’s why they have more individualized attention. These centers often create a structured, school-like environment perfect for early learning.

In contrast, in-home programs tend to be smaller and might operate out of the caregiver’s home or smaller facilities. These setups usually promote a more intimate, family-like atmosphere.

So, when thinking about how to find infant care, you might prioritize providing your child with a family-like atmosphere.

Key questions when searching for daycare:

⦁ What is the monthly or weekly tuition fee?

⦁ Are there any enrollment fees or deposits?

⦁ Are there any sibling discounts or other forms of financial assistance?

⦁ What are the additional costs?

⦁ Are there any penalties or extra charges?

⦁ Is there a refund policy if you decide to withdraw our child?

⦁ Are there any extra costs for special programs or extracurricular activities?

⦁ How often are tuition rates reviewed and increased?

3. Safety and hygiene measures

First off, ensure the place has secure entrances and exits. You don’t want just anyone waltzing in, right? Also, check if the outdoor play areas are fenced off. You’ll sleep better knowing there are strict policies for visitors and pickups.

For example, can Grandma just drop by and pick up your child, or do parents need to notify the childcare center in advance? Is a heads-up enough, or does Grandma also need a childcare authorization form?

Next, you need to get the lowdown on their emergency procedures. How do they handle, say, a fire or a medical emergency? And what kind of training do the staff receive to tackle such situations? This is crucial for your peace of mind.

Monthly drills are another huge deal. Fire drills and shelter-in-place procedures — how are these handled? Knowing the answers can give you a good sense of how seriously the facility takes safety.

Don’t forget everyday safety and hygiene measures. Look around for fire safety equipment, first aid supplies, and clear emergency procedures. You’ll want to know how they handle sick kids —what’s their policy? How do they manage illness and ensure proper hygiene? Make sure they’ve got all the bases covered.

Key questions when searching for daycare:

⦁ What security measures are in place to control access to the facility?

⦁ What are the policies regarding visitors?

⦁ What are procedures for emergencies such as fires or medical incidents?

⦁ What kind of training does the staff receive in handling emergencies?

⦁ How often do fire drills or other safety drills happen?

⦁ How do they keep a clean and hygienic environment?

⦁ Do they have first aid supplies and specially trained staff on-site?

4. Location and travel

What’s the ideal commute to childcare? Generally, a one-way trip of 15 to 30 minutes is optimal. But if the childcare has superstar teachers and feeds the kids like a five-star restaurant, it might be worth a longer drive.

Ideally, choosing a place within walking distance saves you from traffic woes. However, this depends on your residence. Advice for Manhattan parents differs greatly from advice for a family in Ohio.

Also, consider the area’s safety. It’s simple: if you’d be uneasy walking there after 5 PM, it’s better to find another location.

Key questions when searching for daycare:

⦁ How close are you to our home or workplace?

⦁ Is there heavy traffic around drop-off and pickup times?

⦁ What measures are in place to ensure the safety of the surrounding area?

⦁ Are there convenient transportation options available nearby?

⦁ What kind of neighborhood is it?

5. Accreditation and licensing

Your childcare provider should be 100% licensed and accredited. Licensed means they follow state rules. Accredited? They’ve met even higher quality standards.

Accreditation guarantees quality, while licensing confirms state compliance. This is your assurance that the facility meets minimum safety, health, and education standards. To verify the childcare you consider, check the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) or your state’s licensing agency. 

Key questions when searching for daycare:

⦁ Is the facility licensed by the state and accredited by any national organizations like NAEYC?

⦁ Are there the most recent inspection reports and compliance history?

⦁ What qualifications and certifications does the staff hold?

⦁ What ongoing training does the staff participate in?

⦁ How do they keep up with health and safety regulations and updates?

6. Schedule and enrollment

Most places in the US are open Monday through Friday, roughly 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Some even offer those coveted extended hours for parents with hectic schedules.

Don’t forget to ask about waitlist availability when checking out different facilities. Some waitlists are so long you might think they were for an exclusive club — sometimes months, even years. Believe it or not, some parents sign up for childcare before their child is born.

So, ask the million-dollar question: “How quickly can we get in?” This can help determine if the timing works for you and can save you a lot of headaches down the road.

Key questions when searching for daycare:

⦁ What are the standard operating hours?

⦁ Does childcare offer extended hours or weekend care?

⦁ What is the current waitlist status?

⦁ Do they offer part-time as well as full-time care?

⦁ Do they have summer programs or special holiday care options?

⦁ Can parents visit during operational hours? Are there any restrictions?

7. Nutrition

Ask about the food options for your child’s age group. Facilities should offer balanced meals and snacks for different developmental stages. For infants, check on formula or milk storage and the introduction of solids. For older kids, meals should include fruits, veggies, whole grains, and proteins.

Inquire about food intolerances and allergies. Do they have a strict allergy policy? The staff should be aware of cross-contamination issues — and be ready to fight them. Also, the childcare should be able to accommodate dietary restrictions, whether for health or personal reasons.

Key questions when searching for daycare:

⦁ Is there a sample menu for a week?

⦁ Does the childcare prepare meals on-site, or are they catered?

⦁ How do they handle dietary restrictions and food allergies?

⦁ What kind of snacks are provided?

⦁ Do they provide water throughout the day?

8. Caregiver’s experience and qualifications

Your child’s well-being hinges on the quality of their caregivers. It’s not just about basics; dig a bit deeper. Think about qualifications and certifications. Are they trained in first aid? What about hands-on experience with children? You need someone whose credentials go beyond the paper.

Key questions when searching for daycare:

⦁ What certifications do they hold in child development, CPR, and first aid?

⦁ How extensive is their experience with children?

⦁ What is the typical turnover rate in their current or previous positions?

⦁ Can they share specifics about their training or ongoing professional development?

9. Curriculum and activities

Childcare isn’t just where you leave your child to wait for you. It must be an environment where all of your child’s skills—cognitive, social, emotional, and physical—are nurtured and developed.

So, ask about their daily routines and the educational activities they offer. Do they have programs that ignite your little one’s creativity, like art, music, or perhaps even a mini sports league?

Key questions when searching for daycare:

⦁ What does their daily schedule look like?

⦁ Can they describe the curriculum and how it’s tailored to different age groups?

⦁ How do they support cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development?

⦁ What types of educational activities do they offer?

⦁ Are there special programs or classes like art, music, or sports?

⦁ How do they measure and track each child’s progress?

⦁ Do they incorporate play-based learning, and if so, how?

10. Outside time

Sure, kids can chill in front of the TV at home. However, childcare should guarantee that kids get as much outdoor time as they need when the weather’s right.

Almost every place promises daily outdoor play (it’s a must in states like North Carolina), but get into the outdoor setup and, more importantly, what the kids are actually doing out there.

Key questions when searching for daycare:

⦁ How much time do children spend outside each day?

⦁ What are the outdoor spaces available? What features do they have?

⦁ What outdoor activities and games does childcare organize?

⦁ Do they have natural surfaces like grass or mulch in your playgrounds?

⦁ How do they ensure the safety and supervision of children during outdoor time?

⦁ Are there any nature-focused programs or activities?

⦁ What is their policy for outdoor time during different weather conditions?

11. Communication

It is crucial to feel in the loop about your child’s day and progress. A great provider should have an open policy and be eager to communicate with you. Find out how they keep you updated—daily reports, emails, or parent-teacher conferences.

Key questions when searching for daycare:

⦁ Do they have an open-door policy for parents?

⦁ What methods do they use to communicate with parents?

⦁ How often do they provide updates on the child’s progress and development?

⦁ How quickly do they typically respond to parent inquiries or concerns?

⦁ What is their protocol for communicating any issues or incidents during the day?

⦁ Can parents drop in for visits, and how is this managed?

Watch this TEDx Talk where Tom Weisner, a professor of anthropology and psychiatry, talks about the most important influence on child development:

12. Test drive

Don’t let the first time you see a childcare center be when dropping your child off for a full day. Start by visiting yourself. Get a feel for the place — listen to the management and check out the rules, the menu, and the territory.

Take a walk near the childcare, ideally when children play outside or parents pick them up. Check the atmosphere, the engagement of educators, and the mood of the kids.

Once you’re sure there’s nothing sketchy, you can move on to the next step. If possible, arrange short visits during the first week or two so your child gets used to it. Sometimes, starting with two hours and gradually increasing the time works best.

To sum up

In the USA, more than 2 million parents had to quit, decline, or drastically change their jobs due to childcare issues. No one should have to join that statistic.

For children, this is a fantastic opportunity to socialize, learn new skills, and prepare for school. Statistics prove that kids become more sociable, eager to stand out, and more motivated after childcare.

For parents, this means more time for other pursuits and the peace of mind that their child is engaged in meaningful activities unlike anything they’d experience at home.

So, when it comes to juggling parenting and work, the right choice of childcare may give that balance all parents are looking for.