A Guide to Daycare Tours
Are you starting your search for childcare and don’t know where to start? This process can be exciting and overwhelming. It is a big step trusting someone else to care for your child. If youre not sure what to look for or what questions to ask you are not alone which is why we created this guide to help you feel more confident in what to look for when choosing a daycare for your child.
Factors to consider when looking for a Childcare Centre:
Curriculum:
Does the centre’s philopsophy and curriculum align with your own values? What and how do you want your child to learn? There are a number of different approaches to Early Childhood Education here are some of the most common curriculums:
Reggio Emilia – Child led, project-based learning driven by children’s interests; strong focus on creativity, collaboration, and exploration of natural materials.
Montessori – Structured, hands-on learning using specialized materials that encourage independence, focus, and self-paced work.
Emergent Curriculum – Flexible, interest-based approach where lessons grow naturally from children’s play, questions, and conversations.
Play-Based Learning – Learning through guided play that supports social, emotional, and cognitive development in a fun, engaging way.
Schedule & Closures
Does the centre’s hours fit within your schedule? Hours also may also vary from program to program. For example our Junior Kindergarten program runs from 9am-2pm and follows the Langley schools closure schedule. Whereas our 3-5 Full Day program is open from 7am-5:30pm and only closes for centre wide closures. Some centres have Spring Break and Summer Closures which can also been an important thing to consider if you have a strict work schedule
Environment
Classroom size can be an important factor in how your child feels and adjusts to daycare. If you have an outgoing child who is eager to learn they will likely thrive in a large enviornment. Whereas if your child is more reserved and prefers quiet spaces you may want to take this into consideration as well. At Tiny Timbers we have both small and large classroom options.
Location
It is important to ensure the location is conveniently located for you whether it is close to work or home. It is also worth considering whether the centre is located within walking distance to any parks. Of course you want to ensure the location is located in a safe environment.
Fees and Subsidies
What are the monthly fees? Does the centre include the Child Care Fee Reduction Initiative provided by the BC Government: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/family-social-supports/caring-for-young-children/childcarebc-programs/child-care-fee-reduction-initiative-provider-opt-in-status/information-for-families
Are the fees inclusive of all the operating hours or are there any additional costs?
Does the centre accept the Affordable Childcare Benefit? You can read more about ACCB and see if your family qualifies here: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/family-social-supports/caring-for-young-children/childcarebc-programs/child-care-benefit
Are there any additional services that incur an extra fee?
Questions to ask: Here we have complied some of the most common questions and ones we think are important when evaluating any childcare space
What is your teacher to student ratio?
How long have the teachers been in Early Chilhood Education? How long have they worked for this centre?
Does the building have secured entry?
Do you have live cameras or security cameras?
What does the daily schedule look like?
Is there any requirement to be potty trained in any of the programs? How does your centre support potty training?
What is your approach to behavioural guidance?
How do we receive updates, how do you communicate about a child’s day?
Trust your gut
As a parent you know how important it is to listen to your gut when deciding what is right for your family. If you felt comfortable, welcomed and at ease during your tour it is likely your child will feel the same way. If you leave with any questions or hesitations follow up to clarify. Overall it should feel like the right fit for you and your family.