Questions to ask as you research daycares

I just did a chat around Montessori and finding childcare and wanted to share a longer list of questions you could ask as you're vetting your daycare options.

An IN PERSON tour is going to help you to quickly figure out how you FEEL about a place. That mama gut you're developing will be your guide, and in my experience you will KNOW. Do the kids look happy? Is it clean? Does it feel chaotic?

Here are some questions you can take for inspiration for those initial conversations. Some of this will likely be answered for you in the initial materials you receive from the school as well (a good sign!).

Do your research, make your best choice and see how it goes Mama. You're doing a beautiful job 🫶

Daily Routine & Baby’s Care

• How do you communicate with parents about daily activities like naps, feeding, diaper changes, and mood?

• What does a typical day look like for an infant here?

• How do you handle feeding—do you follow our schedule or your own?

• Do you support breastmilk, formula, and solid food preferences?

• How are naps managed—are they on a schedule or baby-led?

Health & Safety

• What are your illness and sick child policies?

• How do you handle emergencies (e.g., allergic reactions, injuries)?

• Are staff trained in infant CPR and first aid?

• What is your procedure for administering medication?

• What security measures do you have for drop-off/pick-up?

Staff Qualifications & Ratios

• What are the qualifications and experience of the caregivers?

• What is your caregiver-to-infant ratio?

• How do you vet, screen, and train staff members?

• Is there ongoing professional development or training for staff?

Environment & Philosophy

• What is your approach to infant development and play?

• How do you handle crying or fussy babies?

• Do you follow any specific childcare philosophies (Montessori, play-based, etc.)?

• Can I tour the classroom or facility my baby would be in?

Parent Communication & Involvement

• How do you share updates—daily app, written reports, photos, texts?

• Is there a way to communicate directly with my child’s caregiver?

• Do you host parent-teacher conferences or check-ins?

Logistics & Policies

• What are your hours and policies around late pick-up?

• What is the vacation/holiday schedule?

• What is your policy for transitioning babies into daycare for the first time?

• How flexible are you with scheduling (e.g., part-time or drop-in care)?

• What supplies do we need to bring vs. what you provide?

Costs & Enrollment

• What is the cost of care and what’s included?

• Are there any enrollment or annual fees?

• What’s the notice period for withdrawal?