From First Visit to Enrollment: Steps to Choosing the Right Program for Your Family

Choosing a child care or preschool program is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a parent. It's natural to feel a mix of excitement and nerves as you start the search. After all, you're trusting someone new with your child's care, learning, and daily routines. The good news? With a clear plan and the right questions, you can move from your first visit to confident enrollment without feeling overwhelmed. Here's a simple roadmap to help guide you through the process.

STEP ONE: DEFINE YOUR FAMILY'S PRIORITIES

Before you schedule a single tour, take time to discuss and map out what matters most to your family, and what you are looking for in child care. Consider the following:

• Are you looking for a nanny, in-home child care program, daycare center or preschool

• Location and Commute

• Budget

• Program Hours & Flexibility

• Curriculum Style (play-based, Montessori, academic, etc.)

• Teacher-Student Ratios and Group Sizes

• Parent Involvement Requirements & Communication Style

STEP TWO: RESEARCH YOUR OPTIONS

Use a combination of online searches, state licensing databases, and recommendations from friends and neighbors. Make a list of potential programs that appear to meet your needs, and gather key information such as:

• Licensing Status & Inspection History

• Ages Served

• Availability & Enrollment Dates

• Reviews or Testimonials

STEP THREE: SCHEDULE & ATTEND TOURS

Tours are your best opportunity to see a program in action. When visiting:

• Observe Teacher-Student Interactions (Warmth & attentiveness matter)

• Look for a Safe, Clean and Organized Environment

• Pay Attention to Group Sizes and Overall Atmosphere (Does it feel welcoming & engaging?)

• Bring a List of Questions (See our Smart Start Guide for a list of questions)

STEP FOUR: COMPARE NOTES AFTER EACH VISIT

It's easy to forget details when you've toured several programs. After each visit make sure to:

• Write Down Your Impressions of the Staff, Facility & Routines

• Note Any Red Flags or Standout Positives

• Compare Programs Side-by-Side Using Your Family's Priorities as a Guide

STEP FIVE: REVIEW POLICIES & ENROLLMENT DETAILS

Once you've narrowed down your choices, request copies of:

• Parent Handbooks & Policy Guides

• Enrollment Contracts & Tuition Schedules

• Health & Safety Policies

• Curriculum & Scheduling Outlines

• Fees & Payment Schedules

• Vacation, Illness & Closure Policies

• Expectations for Parent Communication & Involvement

STEP SIX: INVOLVE YOUR CHILD (IF AGE APPROPRIATE)

If your child is old enough, talk with them about the visit. Ask them:

• Did they feel comfortable with the teachers and the space?

• What excited them the most?

A child's comfort level and first impressions can offer valuable insight.

STEP SEVEN: MAKE YOUR DECISION AND ENROLL

Trust the combination of your observations, priorities, and instincts. Once you've made your decision, complete the enrollment process and begin to prepare for this big transition. By Choosing the right child care is less about finding the "perfect" school or nanny or home daycare, and more about finding the one that aligns with your family's needs, values and routines.