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Family checklist · 7 min

Questions to ask on a child care tour

A simple checklist for routines, communication, staffing, safety, cost, and fit.

A tour is your chance to see how a program works when the marketing language stops. Bring a short list, take notes, and ask the same core questions at every program so comparisons are fair.

Quick takeaways
  • Confirm the license and who supervises children throughout the day.
  • Ask what happens during meals, naps, toileting, outdoor time, and difficult moments.
  • Get all fees, deposits, closures, and late policies in writing.
  • Ask how families receive updates and raise concerns.

Care, supervision, and daily routines

  • Who will care for my child most often, and what happens when that person is absent?
  • How do you comfort children, guide behavior, and handle conflict?
  • What does a typical day look like for my child's age?
  • How are naps, meals, allergies, medication, toileting, and outdoor play handled?

Communication and family partnership

  • How will I hear about my child's day and development?
  • How do you notify families about incidents, illness, closures, or staffing changes?
  • Can families visit, participate, or schedule a conversation when concerns arise?

Schedule and cost

  • Are the posted hours the hours my child may actually attend?
  • What are the tuition, registration, food, transportation, late, and supply fees?
  • Which holidays, vacation days, or provider closures are still billed?
  • Does the program accept a subsidy or voucher, and has participation been confirmed with that program?
Sources

Check the original guidance

California CDSS: Questions to consider for child care centersCalifornia CDSS Parent Information and Resources