Choosing a daycare is one of the biggest decisions you'll make as a parent. Your child will spend thousands of hours there. You want to know that the place is safe, warm, and stimulating.
Here's a guide to help you understand what to look for, how to navigate the process, and how to make the most of the settling-in period.
When to Start Looking
The earlier, the better. Quality daycare spots — especially for infants — fill up fast. Most experts recommend starting your research at least 6–12 months before you need care to begin.
In many countries, the demand for infant slots far exceeds supply, so getting on waitlists early is essential. Check with local providers about their enrollment timelines.
In many regions, children become eligible for subsidized childcare at a specific age — check your local government's rules for eligibility and financial assistance programs.
Types of Daycare
Understanding the different types of care helps you narrow down what's right for your family.
Center-Based Daycare
Larger facilities with dedicated classrooms, trained staff, and structured programming. Usually licensed and inspected regularly. Best for families who value structure and peer socialization.
Home Daycare (Family Childcare)
Run by a caregiver in their home, typically with fewer children. Can feel more family-like, with mixed ages and a quieter environment. Ideal for families who prefer a smaller, cozier setting.
Montessori Programs
Follow Montessori philosophy: child-led learning, independence, mixed-age groups, and hands-on materials. Children choose their own activities within a structured environment.
Waldorf / Steiner Programs
Emphasize free play, rhythm, natural materials, and creative work. Less focus on academic learning, more on imagination and movement.
Nature-Based or Forest Programs
Children spend most of the day outdoors, in all weather. Great for children who thrive with physical activity and fresh air.
Visit at least 2–3 providers before deciding. The atmosphere, the staff, and the outdoor space tell you far more than any website.
What to Look for on a Visit
Staff and Ratios
Staff quality is the single most important factor in childcare quality.
Recommended staff-to-child ratios:
- Infants (0–12 months): 1 adult per 3–4 children
- Toddlers (1–3 years): 1 adult per 4–6 children
- Preschoolers (3–5 years): 1 adult per 8–10 children
Ask how they handle absences and sick days. High turnover or understaffing directly affects how much attention each child receives.
Outdoor Space
Children need outdoor time daily, in all seasons. Look for varied, safe, stimulating outdoor areas — sandboxes, climbing structures, open grass, natural elements.
Food and Meals
Many daycares provide meals; others ask you to pack a lunch. Ask:
- Do they cook from scratch or bring in catered food?
- How do they handle allergies and dietary needs?
- What does a typical day's menu look like?
Daily Schedule
Good daycares have a predictable structure that balances free play with guided activities.
A typical daycare schedule:
- 7:00–9:00 AM: Drop-off and free play
- 9:00–9:30 AM: Group time / breakfast
- 9:30–11:00 AM: Outdoor play or planned activity
- 11:00–11:30 AM: Lunch
- 11:30 AM–2:00 PM: Nap/rest time (for younger children)
- 2:00–2:30 PM: Snack
- 2:30–5:30 PM: Free play and pick-up
Questions to Ask
About staff:
- How many permanent staff work in my child's room?
- What's your policy for covering illness absences?
- What's your staff turnover rate?
About philosophy:
- What's your educational philosophy?
- How do you encourage children's independence and self-expression?
- How do you handle conflicts between children?
About settling in:
- What does your settling-in process look like?
- Can parents stay during the first week?
- How do you support children who need more time to adjust?
Practical:
- What are your hours?
- How do you communicate with parents (app, email, daily notes)?
- How many closure days per year?
Pay attention to how the staff interact with the children already there. Do they speak warmly and get down to the children's level? Do the children look settled and happy? That tells you more than any policy document.
Cost and Financial Assistance
Daycare costs vary widely depending on location, type of care, and the age of your child. Infant care is typically the most expensive.
Look into:
- Subsidized childcare programs — Many governments offer income-based subsidies for families
- Tax credits — Dependent care flexible spending accounts (FSA) or child and dependent care tax credits
- Employer benefits — Some employers offer childcare assistance or backup care programs
- Sliding-scale fees — Many nonprofit daycares adjust fees based on family income
Research what's available in your area early — the application process for subsidies can take time.
The Settling-In Period
Once you've secured a spot, the settling-in process begins. Most daycares recommend a gradual start over 3–5 days.
A Typical Settling-In Approach
Day 1–2: You stay with your child while they explore. You act as their secure base as they begin to take in the new environment.
Day 3: A short separation (15–30 minutes). The caregiver takes over while you wait nearby or step out briefly.
Day 4–5: Longer periods without you. Increase gradually based on how your child responds.
Some Children Need More Time
Settling in isn't a formula. Some children are relaxed after three days. Others need two weeks. Communicate openly with the staff about what's working for your child specifically.
Check with your employer about any policies around paid leave or flexibility during the settling-in period. Many companies accommodate this — it's worth asking.
Common Worries
"We didn't get our first choice"
Many families end up at their second or third pick and find it's a wonderful fit. The quality of the staff and the warmth of the environment matter far more than the name above the door.
"My baby is only one — is that too young?"
Research consistently shows that quality childcare from infancy is positive for most children's development, provided staff ratios and quality are good. A secure attachment with you remains the most important foundation — and daycare doesn't undermine that.
"We're not sure whether to choose a nonprofit or a for-profit center"
Quality varies more between individual programs than between types. Visit both, and let what you see and feel guide you.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start looking for daycare?
Start at least 6–12 months before you need care. For infant slots especially, waitlists can be long. The earlier you begin, the more options you'll have.
Can I switch daycares?
Yes. You can change providers at any time, though you'll typically need to give notice (often 2–4 weeks). Be thoughtful about timing — transitions can be hard for young children.
What's the difference between a lead teacher and an assistant?
A lead teacher typically holds a degree in early childhood education and is responsible for curriculum and child development planning. Assistants support the lead and may or may not have formal qualifications — ask about staff credentials when you visit.
Summary
- Start your search early — infant spots fill quickly
- Visit at least 2–3 providers before deciding
- Check staff ratios, outdoor space, and meals
- Ask about turnover, settling-in, and philosophy
- Give the settling-in process the time your child needs
Further Reading
- Starting Daycare: How to Prepare Your Child — Tips for the transition and what to pack
- Separation Anxiety in Babies and Toddlers — Understanding and managing anxiety
- Picky Eaters: What to Do When Your Child Won't Eat — Mealtime strategies