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• Is the centre licensed, and is the license posted? (you may check with Community of Social Services)
• Are the government ratios being followed? (number of children per teacher)
• Does the centre have an 'Open Door Policy', allowing you to drop-in anytime unannounced?
• Are they registered with the Better Business Bureau and have they had any complaints against them?
• What security measures are taken?
• What is the philosophy behind the education that is provided to the children?
• What qualifications do the staff have?
• Are the staff trained in CPR?
• Are the staff unionized or non-unionized?
• Is the facility a private or non-profit organization?
• What discipline techniques are practiced?
• Does the centre encourage multi-cultural education?
• Does the menu follow the Canada Food Guide? Is the menu posted?
• Is outdoor time scheduled daily?
• Are children supervised constantly, never being left unattended?
• Is nap time mandatory?
• Are quiet time activities provided for the non-sleepers?
• Are the staff offered 'Job Related Training Courses' to keep their skills current?
• How frequently is new equipment purchased? (outdoor equipment/classroom equipment)
• Is the centre well ventilated? (proper heating and air conditioning is important for maintaining a healthy environment)
• What are the policies/procedures and financial agreements?

In general, if you are able to schedule a visit to the childcare facility with your child and sit in on a class, this will give you and your child an opportunity to observe teacher/child interactions and the overall organization of their program and routine. Take note of how the children in the class are behaving; do they seem happy and content? This will speak volumes about the overall classroom management.

Please feel free to print this list of questions to use as a guideline as you search for the perfect childcare solution.

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