Does anyone have a list or know where I could get a list of questions to ask a potential daycare provider? I have an appointment to interview a daycare facility later this week. I started my own list, but thought there must be something out there I could leverage. I want a comprehensive list of questions around safety, activities, schedules, nap time, employees, etc. Any help is greatly appreciated.
ask what their policy for sick days is... Do you pay if your child is not there? Holidays? etc...
You said facility, so I would assume they are licenced...
Do they supply the meals or will you have to send food in...
Will you be charged if you pick up the kids early? What is their late pick up fees...
then the usual, how many kids per room etc...
How long they've been in operation and what their teacher turn over rate is...
If its a licensed facility then they will have an emergency contingency plan they can give you.
Do you pay extra for activities and supplies or is it rolled into the cost...
Have they ever had any incidents? (had to call the cops, ambulance, etc)
And a ton and a half more... lol
Hi Stacy,
Go to the Department of Human Services for Michigan Website and click on Child Care and then Parent Resources on the right hand side. There is a section called, What to look for in a Child Care Provider. I hope that helps.
Hello,
Google it...
Thats what I did to find a list of questions when I was interviewing a Ped. Dr. before my daughter was born.
I actually found entire worksheets and things like that. I'm sure there is the same for daycare.
Good luck!
GENERAL
•Availability
•Hours / Days
•Pick-up / Drop off times and procedures
•Sick-Child Policy
•Open Door Policy
•Emergency Plan
•Licensed, any issues
•How are issues/changes/etc. communicated to the parents?
•References from current and former clients
•What's provided, what do I need to bring:
Diapers / Wipes
Crib Sheets
Snacks / Lunch
Other?
CURRICULUM, SCHEDULE
•Schedule
Nap times
Snacks times
Meal times
•Physical activity
•Quiet time
•Reading sessions
•Group activities
•Individual activities
•TV/Videos
•Potty training strategy
•Age appropriate toys
•Example lesson plans?
•How often are diapers changed?
MEALS
•Example menu? Type of milk?
•If they don't eat what is given, will they be given something else?
STAFF
•Education
At least two years of college
Background in early childhood development
CPR and other emergency training
•Responsible, enthusiastic, and well prepared
•Philosophies on sleep, discipline, feeding, and other care issues
Discipline policy
How handle toddler tantrums?
•Ratios
•Turnover, length of time at this center
•Flu shots? Immunizations?
FACILITY
•Secure
•Staff should wash their hands regularly, and after every diaper change
•Clean and sanitary
•Food preparation areas
•Trash
•Adequately heated/cooled, lit, and ventilated
•Plenty of space (at least 35 square feet of indoor space per child and 75 square feet per child outside)
•Toys and play equipment should be in good repair
•Bedding should be fresh and firm
•Outdoor play area should be level and secure
•Smoke detectors should be in place and working
•First aid kit and fire extinguisher should be close at hand
•All standard childproofing techniques should be used (covered outlets, safety gates, door latches, etc.)
HOME CENTER SPECIFIC QUESTIONS
•Current children:
Number
Ages
Length of time at center
Expected to leave soon?
•Pets?
•Who else is in the home? Other children? Own children?
Number of children being cared for when school is not in session (summer, etc.) – including own children?
•Any smokers living in the home or frequent visitors?
•Any history of alcohol abuse? Drug abuse? Mental disorders? Physical disorders? Arrests or legal issues? (or anyone else in the household)
•When is the TV on?
•What TV programs/videos are watched?
•Nap time:
Where is nap time?
Length of nap time?
What if they do not want to sleep? Can they get up? Can they nap later?
•What prompted you to open your daycare center?
You have been given a great list but I didn't see disipline on it. I know that your child is young but it will be an issue sooner that you think. Also Iwould observe the facility for at least an hour. Go with your gut if you feel uneasy than trust that.
Blessings, Katrina
Hi Stacy! Have you foind daycare? Where do you live? If you havent and you are near Big Rapids please email me [email protected], I am looking for children to care for!
Amber
Have you found care for your child???
I am licensed provider in Novi area...email me if you are still looking for care.
regards
suparna