What should I confirm before paying an enrollment deposit?

Ask for the written fee schedule, deposit and refund terms, start date, schedule, closure calendar, required supplies, and policies that could affect attendance or pickup.

Should I ask about substitute caregivers?

Yes. Ask how staff absences are covered, how families are notified, and whether substitute staff meet the program's requirements.

Do directory hours guarantee an open place?

No. Listed hours do not confirm current availability, waitlist timing, age eligibility, or whether the schedule fits your family's needs. Confirm directly with the program.

Before Enrolling in Child Care: Confirm Policies, Schedule, and Costs

October 3, 2026 · Family guide · 2 min read

Families often compare programs on location and tuition, then discover that a closure day, pickup rule, or meal policy changes the practical fit. Before enrollment, ask the director to walk through a normal week and give you current written policies.

Map the schedule to your real week

Confirm daily drop-off and pickup windows, late-pickup procedures, holidays, staff training days, weather closures, and how much notice the program gives. Ask whether part-time schedules are available and whether the agreed days can change. If care is needed year-round, identify seasonal changes before committing.

Calculate the complete cost

Ask about tuition, registration and activity fees, deposits, payment timing, late fees, meals, supplies, field trips, and any charges for missed days or temporary closures. Request the refund and withdrawal policy in writing. Clarify when tuition begins if your child's start date is delayed.

Understand attendance and health policies

Ask what happens when a child is sick, when they can return, how medication requests are handled, and how the program contacts families about an illness or incident. Confirm the process for authorized pickups, custody instructions, and emergency contacts. Ask how updates are shared and who is the primary contact.

Ask about staffing continuity

Find out how the program covers staff absences, introduces substitutes, and informs families about classroom changes. Ask who supervises the room at different times of day and how the program maintains continuity when a familiar caregiver is away.

Review the actual enrollment agreement

Compare the written agreement with what you were told. Mark any unclear language about notice periods, schedule changes, deposits, or closures and request written clarification. ChildCare.gov's family resources encourage parents to ask practical questions as they compare care. Use our directory to find programs, then confirm openings and terms directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I confirm before paying an enrollment deposit?: Ask for the written fee schedule, deposit and refund terms, start date, schedule, closure calendar, required supplies, and policies that could affect attendance or pickup.
Should I ask about substitute caregivers?: Yes. Ask how staff absences are covered, how families are notified, and whether substitute staff meet the program's requirements.
Do directory hours guarantee an open place?: No. Listed hours do not confirm current availability, waitlist timing, age eligibility, or whether the schedule fits your family's needs. Confirm directly with the program.