What To Ask Before Enrolling In Daycare Services
Health, Safety, and Security: What to Ask Before Enrollment
Daycare safety in the United States is regulated at both state and local levels, but practices can differ markedly even within a city. When evaluating a center, ask about requirements for staff background checks, CPR/first aid certification, and ongoing safety education. Confirm that the facility’s entrances and exits are secured by keypads or monitored reception, ensuring child pick-up is tightly controlled.
Hygiene policies are another core area for inquiry. Request details on sanitation frequency for toys, bathrooms, and surfaces—some centers use daily professional cleaning, while others train staff to follow rigorous checklists. Ask how illness is tracked and handled, such as whether children need to stay home for 24 hours after a fever, or if there’s a dedicated isolation room for sick children.
Allergy and food safety practices should be clarified before enrollment, especially for children with dietary restrictions. Centers often display allergy lists in classrooms, train staff on epinephrine administration, and require parent-completed health forms. Understanding the food program, including how meals are sourced and allergens managed, is critical to a child’s daily wellbeing.
Emergency preparedness—including fire drills, security lockdown training, and access to medical care—demonstrates a center’s readiness for unexpected situations. Ask for a copy of the emergency plan, and check if staff regularly practice with children. Reputable U.S. daycare providers typically review these procedures quarterly and share them openly with parents.