What to look for

You've made the calls. You've narrowed down your search. Now you're ready to visit the programs you're considering.

It's very important to visit the home or child care centre before you enroll your child.  If you are considering a home care program, you may want to schedule your visit during the day when you can see the children in action.

Whether you're visiting child care centres or home care programs, you'll want to:

• talk with the caregivers
• watch the children and staff and how they interact
• assess the physical setting

Here are some points to look for.

First impressions

• Is the location clean and safe?
• Do the children seem happy and interested in what they're doing?
• Are the adults warm, friendly and responsive to the children?
• If you are considering a child care centre, is the licence clearly posted?
• Is there enough space for the number of children?
• Are there adequate napping and toilet facilities?
• Is there outdoor space for children's activities?
• Is the equipment and furniture in good condition?

The daily program

• What type of activities are there?
• What are the policies regarding nap time and toilet training?
• When do the children play outdoors?
• Are there structured and unstructured activities? Individual, small group and large group activities? Active and quiet times?
• Is there a variety of toys and books that are suited to the ages and interests of the children?
• If you are looking at home child care, does the provider take the children to activities outside of the home (for example, to an Ontario Early Years Centre)? If so, how do they get there?
• What happens when a child misbehaves or has a temper tantrum?

Health, nutrition and safety

• Are providers and staff trained in emergency first aid and CPR for the age of the children?
• What are the procedures for distributing medication?
• What happens when a child get sick?
• What are the procedures for disposing of diapers?
• What procedures are followed in the case of emergency, illness, accident or fire.
• Are snacks and meals supplied? Are they healthy and nutritious?
• Are there policies in place for managing food allergies?
• How is food stored, prepared and served?
• Do the playpens and cribs meet current safety standards?
• Are cleaning materials and medications stored out-of-reach of the children?

Staff training and staff-to-child ratios

• How long have the director and staff members worked there?
• What educational training have they had?
• How many children does one person look after at any time during the day?

Administrative policy

• What are the hours of operation?
• When are fees to be paid? In cash or by cheque?
• What is the policy about paying for days when your child is sick, absent or on holidays?
• Are there any other costs?
• How much notice do you have to give if you are withdrawing from the program, or if you child will be absent for holidays?