Some Questions to Ask

When you start your search for child care, it's a good idea to call the child care providers you are considering and ask them a few questions.

The answers to these questions can help you choose the places you want to visit.

How does the agency choose providers?
What happens when providers are sick?
Do providers have special training?
What is the agency's philosophy or approach when working with providers?
Do providers encourage parents to drop in?
What hours of care are available? Are they flexible?
How many children do providers accept?
How old are the children?
How soon is care available?
What is the cost of care? Are there any additional charges? Is there a charge when children are sick or away on holiday? Is there an application fee?
Is fee subsidy available?

What are your hours?
How old are the children you care for?
How many children are in a group?
How many staff members care for each group?
What training do the staff have?
Can the centre accommodate the special needs of children?
Are parents encouraged to drop in?
What is the cost? Are there any additional charges? Is there a charge when children are sick or away on holiday? Is there an application fee?
Is fee subsidy available?
Do you have a waiting list?
Are meals and snacks nutritious?

What are the hours?
How many children are in a group?
How many staff members care for each group?
What training and experience do staff have?
Are parents encouraged to drop in?
Can children choose to do homework?
What is the relationship between the program and the school?
Can children participate in after-school activities and still be monitored by the child care program?
Is transportation provided if children have to travel a distance to and from school?
What happens when a child does not arrive at the centre at the expected time?
What is the cost? Are there any additional costs? Is there a charge when children are sick or away on holiday? Is there an application fee?
Is there a waiting list?