A Parent's Tour Toolkit: Questions to Ask Before Enrolling

Touring child care programs is one of the most important steps in choosing the right fit for your family. Walking into a new school can feel exciting, and also a little overwhelming. The key is to arrive prepared with the right questions so you can make an informed, confident decision. This guide will help you focus on what matters most - so you can move beyond the bright classrooms and cute cubbies, and really understand how each program operates.

SAFETY & LICENSING

Safety should always be the starting point. Ask these questions to determine how safe the program is that you are touring:

• Is your program fully licensed by the state?

• How often are you inspected, and by who?

• Can I see your most recent inspection report?

• What are your teacher-student ratios for each age group?

A trustworthy program will be transparent and proud to share this information.

STAFF QUALIFICATIONS & STABILITY

The quality of care often comes down to the people who interact with your child every day. Ask these questions to determine how stable the staff is of the school you are touring:

• What are the qualifications and certifications of your teachers and aides?

• How long has your staff been with the program? How many people are on your staff?

• What is your approach to ongoing professional development?

High quality programs invest in their staff - which directly benefits your child.

LEARNING & DAILY ROUTINE

Understanding the curriculum and daily schedule will help you picture your child's day. Ask these questions to learn specific details about the program you are touring:

• What does a typical daily schedule look like?

• Which curriculum do you follow for early learning?

• How do you support social-emotional development?

• How do you handle meals, naps and outdoor play?

Look for a balance of structured activities, free play, and outdoor time.

COMMUNICATION & PARENT INVOLVEMENT

Strong communication builds trust between families and the program. Ask these questions to learn what each school expects from their teachers and families:

• How do you keep parents informed about the day - apps, daily reports, photos, meetings?

• Are parents welcome to/required to visit and/or volunteer?

• How do you handle communication about incidents, milestones or concerns?

You'll want a program that keeps you in the loop and welcomes your partnership.

HEALTH & SAFETY PRACTICES

Beyond licensing, it's worth understanding the programs daily health practices. Ask the following questions to determine if this school fits what you want:

• How do you handle illness policies and notify families about outbreaks?

• What are your procedures for emergencies like fire drills, weather events, or injuries?

• How do you ensure hygiene and sanitation in classrooms and kitchens?

PROGRAM POLICIES & PHILOSOPHY

Understanding how the program's values align with your own can help you feel confident about your choice. Ask the questions below to see how this school aligns with what you are looking for:

• What is your discipline and guidance policy?

• How do you support children with different learning styles or needs?

• What is the enrollment process, and are there wait lists or annual fees?

TOUR TIPS

• Bring a notebook or use your phone to jot down answers.

• Take time to observe interactions between staff and children.

• Don't hesitate to ask for clarification. Good programs expect and welcome your questions.