5 Steps to Choosing the Right Childcare

How do you find the best childcare for your family?

Choosing the right daycare or preschool is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your child’s future.

A strong foundation in early education makes a lasting impact. In fact, adults who attended high-quality early learning programs are 80% more likely to attend college and earn 33% higher salaries on average!*

So where do you begin? Follow these 5 essential steps to ensure your child receives the same quality of care and attention you provide at home.

1. Start Early

Begin your childcare search at least three months in advance. Infant and toddler classrooms fill up quickly, and many have waiting lists. Giving yourself time means:

• Less stress and pressure to make a rushed decision.
• More opportunities to tour, compare, and evaluate different schools.
• A better chance of securing a spot at your top choice.

If your first-choice center is full, join their waitlist. Openings often become available unexpectedly!

2. Do Your Research

• Ask for Recommendations: Talk to friends, family, coworkers, and even your pediatrician for childcare referrals.
• Check State Ratings: Most states have childcare rating systems. Look up ratings and reviews online.
• Visit Websites: Explore each school’s programs, hours, and philosophy to see if they align with your family’s needs.

3. Do Telephone Interviews

Before scheduling tours, narrow down your options with quick phone calls or emails. Prepare a list of key questions, such as:

• Do they have availability?
• How much is tuition?
• What are their hours?
• What’s the teacher-to-child ratio?
• Is the center licensed?
• What curriculum do they use?

If a center doesn’t meet your needs, simply cross it off the list and move on!

4. Schedule Tours

Visiting in person is the best way to get a feel for the environment. When touring, make sure to:

• Observe interactions between teachers and children
• Check cleanliness & safety measures
• Ask about daily routines & learning activities
• Take notes & pictures to compare later

👉 Need help knowing what to look for?
Download our Tour Checklist to make sure you ask the right questions!

5. Make an Informed Decision

Before making your final choice, take these extra steps for peace of mind:

• Ask for parent references from the school.
• Read online reviews on Google & Facebook.
• Visit unannounced for a second look at daily operations.
• Trust your instincts! If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to keep looking.