Questions to Ask

Deciding which early childhood education center is right for your child is a big deal! Here are some questions you can ask a center you're considering to help inform your decision.

1. Are you Licensed? What does this mean/entail?

2. How long has your center been open?

3. How long has the Director been there and what is the typical staff turnover rate from year to year?

4. Do you require your staff to further their education?

5. Do you require your staff to receive training in C.P.R. and First aid?

6. Does your center follow a specific educational philosophy? (e.g. Montessori, High Scope)

7. What is your center’s discipline policy?

8. What is your center’s sick policy?

9. What is your center’s policy on children with special needs?

10. Are meals/snacks provided? Are there dietary restrictions (e.g. Kosher, peanut-free)?

11. What time does your center open/close and is there one combined classroom for before and after care? 

12. What is the Staff: Child Ratio at your center and how does it change by age?

13. What type of communication should I expect to receive? How frequently?

14. What does a typical day look like for my child’s age group?

15. Does your center provide any ‘specials’ (e.g. art, music, PE)? How frequently?

16. Are there opportunities for Parent Volunteers? Grandparents?

17. How often are Parent/Teacher conferences? How will I be notified of progress/issues in the interim?