Choosing childcare
Questions to ask childcare providers
There are so many things to remember when you visit a childcare provider – the right questions to ask, things to look out for while at the same time gaining an overall impression of the setting.
It is a good idea to think about the types of things you want to know when you visit and make a note of these and the types of questions you want to ask.
Don’t just rely on these questions, though. Only you will know when a childcare setting feels right and you may have other questions.
Vacancies and costs
Questions to ask childcare providers
There are so many things to remember when you visit a childcare provider – the right questions to ask, things to look out for while at the same time gaining an overall impression of the setting.
It is a good idea to think about the types of things you want to know when you visit and make a note of these and the types of questions you want to ask.
Don’t just rely on these questions, though. Only you will know when a childcare setting feels right and you may have other questions.
Vacancies and costs
- Are there vacancies - is there a waiting list and, if so, how long is this?
- Do you have to pay a deposit? If so, what’s it for? Is it returnable?
- How much does the setting charge per hour/day? Do you have to pay for holidays/meals/nappies/other activities?
- Do they offer a settling in period? If so, how long for?
- What is the ratio of staff to children? How many children do they care for?
- Do they operate a key (named) worker system?
- How will they keep you informed about your child’s progress?
- What opportunities are there for you to be involved?
- What is staff turnover like? How well qualified are the staff? Are all the criminal records checks up to date?
- Is there plenty of outdoor space?
- What Ofsted rating does the setting have and when is the next inspection due?
- Can you see a copy of the registration certificates and inspection reports for the setting?
- What are the daily routines and how can they incorporate your child's and other children's routines?
- Where can your child sleep or rest?
- What if your child is unhappy? How would they be looked after?
- What are their policies on discipline and how do they manage children's behaviour?
- How will your child’s dietary requirements be accommodated? What systems do they have in place if a child has a severe food allergy?
- How will your child’s cultural background be reflected and respected? Are there staff members from different backgrounds? Do they have books and activities representing all cultures? What about food/music/religious festivals?
- What happens if your child is sick?
- What happens if you are delayed picking your child up at the end of the day?
- How will they contact you in an emergency?
