E.L.
Hi There,
Here you go...(sorry so long) I used this when my oldest started 4 years ago and updated it with my second. #1 rule... don't be intimidated if they act funny when you are asking them these questions. Bottom line is that most people spend more time and energy looking for a car then childcare and these people are going to be with your baby more hours a day then you so ask away :-)
* Do you keep the age groups separate? Playrooms, Playgrounds?
* What is the teacher/child ratio?
* What do they do if the teacher calls in sick -- who fills in? Is there a standard sub?
* What changes occur during the summer i.e. attendance, ratio, staffing changes, special activities?
* Do you offer part time care? After hours care? What is the fee?
* What type of security you they have in place?
* How clean is it, is there a cleaning crew or are the teachers responsible?
* Is there a budget for weekly activities of are the parents expected to supply the rooms with supplies?
* What is your policy on disinfecting toys?
* How involved are the parents in supporting the center… are there fundraisers? Are they for charity or the center?
* Are there parent meetings for decision making? How often?
* What are the avenues of communication from the Director/administrative staff… website with lesson plans, menu, etc.? Newsletter?
* What does the menu consist of… healthy food… is it the same food every week or a 4 week rotation?
* Do you offer extra activities such as Stretch –N- Grow, Flips Bus, Karate, Music Together or computer enrichment? Is there an additional fee?
* Can I see a sample of your lesson Plan/Daily activities plan? (This is important even with infants)
* Are the teachers thoroughly screened for background and health issues?
* What training are the teachers expected to have… degree, CPR, First Aide?
* When is tuition due… Weekly, Monthly, what day of the week?
* Will the center debit a bank account/debit card/credit card for tuition?
* Is the tuition less if the center is closed for a facility event like training?
* What does the Holiday schedule look like?
* Is there an annual tuition increase (Montessori has a set yearly increase FYI)
* What is the inclement weather policy? What is the fire / Tornado plan with the kids?
* What is the sick child policy? Is there a 24 hour rule?
* How does the teaching staff communicate to the parents about potty/diaper changes, eating progress, naps… daily take-home sheet/something in the classroom?
I would also look at the DFPS website to see if your center has any recent violations, here is the website. Good Luck and congratulations on your new baby!!!
http://www.dfps.state.tx.us/Child_Care/Search_Texas_Child...
E.