You Found a Daycare you Like. Now What?
Recently found a daycare or childcare center in the Bronx that you really like? Here are 9 questions to ask during or after your tour.
Little Sunshine Center, based in the Bronx, NY, has had its fair share of questions from prospective parents - and we’re ready to share with you what we would consider some of the most frequently asked/must-ask questions when selecting the right place for YOUR little one.
Are you and your family based in the Bronx? Schedule a tour today to check out our Kingsbridge, Van Cortlandt, and/or Riverdale location, and join part of the Little Sunshine family!
Questions to ask when touring a daycare or childcare center:
“What does a typical day look like?”
Don’t just ask “what do kids do here during the day?” Ask about daily routines, learning, if there’s curriculum based learning, meals, playtime, and indoor/outdoor activities just to name a few. Asking these questions will make sure you have a clear understanding of what will happen in your child’s day to day. These questions will mark the difference between “are they just playing and being watched” or “are they actually learning and being developmentally supported?”
“How do teachers communicate with families?”
It’s super important to know how the place where you’ll be leaving your child for extended amounts of time during the day stays in touch with parents. Don’t be afraid to ask about which communication platforms they use and how you can expect to receive updates from them. At Little Sunshine Center, we love using Brightwheel to message parents throughout the day, and send pictures and videos with updates on how their little ones are doing throughout the day.
How do you keep children safe?
Asking this will give you the scoop into how a center handles classroom security and supervision, authorized pickups, emergencies, and more. Safety is a HUGE priority as parents, so it’s important to feel that all bases are covered when it comes to ensuring that your little ones are safe and secure when they’re in someone else’s care.
What meals and snacks are provided?
It’s great to know if food is provided, and what kinds of meals your child will be eating throughout the day. And even more if you know that your little one is a picky eater, it’s worth it to find out if meals can be brought from home, and if there are any restrictions.
What happens when my child is having a hard day?
Ask about how teachers handle separation anxiety, big emotions, conflicts, and challenging behaviors. Little ones are constantly growing and learning how to handle big feelings. It’s a great comfort to know that your child’s teacher is equipped and ready to support.
What are the hours and tuition?
Typically this is information you should receive when you first inquire. But it’s always a great idea to ask about extended hours, discounts, how payment works, and if they accept childcare assistance vouchers (Little Sunshine Center does!)
What does the enrollment process look like?
Don’t be afraid to ask about availability, required documents, waitlists, classroom placements and more! It can feel overwhelming when you’re not sure about the next steps. If you’re confused about any steps of the process, don’t be afraid to ask - we’re delighted to help!
How will my child grow there?
Come with a goal in mind when looking for the right childcare center or daycare. What are things that you would like to see your child grow in within the year, and how can their place of care be of support? Maybe it’s socializing, maybe it's speaking a few more words. Whatever your goal is, make sure you ask how your child will grow and be supported in their time there, especially if you’re looking for a place that prioritizes learning in their care.
What makes your center feel like home?
Throughout the tour ask yourself: is this a place where my child can feel happy, safe, and loved? As a parent, you want to make sure your child is in a place that your child is comfortable to be in, and excited to arrive to everyday.
Found a center you love? The next step is to see it for yourself!
A tour gives you the opportunity to meet teachers, explore the classrooms, ask questions, and get a feel for whether the center is the right fit for your family.
Are you and your family based in the Bronx? Schedule a tour today to check out our Kingsbridge, Van Cortlandt, and/or Riverdale location, and join part of the Little Sunshine family!
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