What is the most important question on a daycare tour?

Staff-to-child ratio and how ratios are maintained during naps, meals, and transitions. Ratios are the strongest predictor of supervision quality. Ask for the written ratio policy and how substitutes are vetted.

How do I verify a daycare license?

Every state maintains an online child-care licensing database with inspection history, violations, and capacity. Ask the director for the license number and cross-check it yourself before enrolling.

What fees do daycares hide until enrollment?

Registration, supply, late pickup, early drop-off, annual re-enrollment, and credit-card processing fees are common. Request a full fee schedule in writing during the tour.

Should I trust online reviews for daycares?

Reviews help with parent experience but miss licensing data. Combine parent reviews with state inspection records and an in-person tour at the time of day your child would attend.

Daycare Tour Questions: 25 Things to Ask Before You Enroll (2026)

June 30, 2026 · How-To Guides · 1 min read

A daycare tour should feel warm — but warmth is not a substitute for ratios, safety systems, and written policies. Bring this checklist on every tour so you compare centers consistently.

Safety and Licensing

License number and last inspection date?
Background check policy for all staff and volunteers?
Emergency procedures — fire, lockdown, injury?
Medication and allergy protocols documented per child?

Staffing and Curriculum

Ratio by age group, including nap time?
Staff turnover in the last 12 months?
Daily schedule — outdoor time, screens, nap window?
How developmental milestones are communicated to parents?

Logistics and Costs

Full fee schedule including holidays and closures?
Sick-child policy and when antibiotics are required to return?
Notice period to withdraw without penalty?
Waitlist length and deposit terms?

Compare licensed centers by city on The Daycare Directory or browse daycares near you with Guide Scores and last-verified listing details.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important question on a daycare tour?: Staff-to-child ratio and how ratios are maintained during naps, meals, and transitions. Ratios are the strongest predictor of supervision quality. Ask for the written ratio policy and how substitutes are vetted.
How do I verify a daycare license?: Every state maintains an online child-care licensing database with inspection history, violations, and capacity. Ask the director for the license number and cross-check it yourself before enrolling.
What fees do daycares hide until enrollment?: Registration, supply, late pickup, early drop-off, annual re-enrollment, and credit-card processing fees are common. Request a full fee schedule in writing during the tour.
Should I trust online reviews for daycares?: Reviews help with parent experience but miss licensing data. Combine parent reviews with state inspection records and an in-person tour at the time of day your child would attend.