Best 50 Questions to Ask Daycare for Infant [Free PDF]

As your family grows, finding the right daycare for your infant is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make. Not only is it essential for your child’s development, but choosing the right daycare also impacts your family’s overall well-being—giving you peace of mind while balancing career growth and financial stability. That’s why knowing the questions to ask daycare for infant care is essential to making the right choice.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key questions to ask during your daycare search, helping you understand what to look for and how to find a daycare that suits both your baby’s needs and your family’s goals. By the end, you’ll have tangible takeaways, actionable advice, and a full list of best 50 questions to ask daycare for infant including our FREE PRINTABLE PDF—all designed to give you confidence in your decision.

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Why Choosing the Right Daycare Matters

Selecting a daycare is about much more than scheduling and proximity. It’s a decision that has long-lasting effects on your child’s early development and your ability to work and thrive. The right daycare can foster emotional, social, and cognitive development, ensuring your infant is set up for success as they grow. Conversely, a daycare that doesn’t align with your values or standards could leave you stressed, with nagging concerns about safety and care.

For families balancing career and growing wealth, ensuring your child is in good hands allows you to focus on your work, knowing your baby is nurtured and safe. Investing in quality daycare today can help reduce disruptions from workdays missed due to illnesses or concerns about inconsistent care.

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First Impressions Matter: What to Look for When Visiting a Daycare

Your initial visit to a daycare is a crucial moment. You’ll want to use this time to not only ask questions but also observe the environment closely. The physical space, the staff’s demeanor, and the overall vibe will offer a lot of insight into whether it’s the right fit for your infant.

Key Things to Observe:

• Cleanliness and Safety: Check that outlets are covered, cords are secured, and toys are clean and in good condition.
• Staff Engagement: Are caregivers interacting warmly with infants? Are they actively engaged with children, or do they seem stressed or distracted?
• The Environment: Look for signs of a nurturing space, such as calm, happy infants, and caregivers responding quickly to a child’s needs. Trust your gut—if something feels off, it probably is.

During this first visit, make sure you have the right questions to ask daycare for infant care, focusing on staff qualifications, safety procedures, and daily routines.

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Safety and Security: Protecting Your Infant’s Well-Being

Safety and security should be the top priority when selecting a daycare for your infant. As a parent, you need to ensure that your child is being cared for in an environment that is both safe and secure, with proper protocols in place to handle emergencies, illnesses, and daily risks. By asking the right questions, you can gain insight into how seriously a daycare center takes its safety responsibilities and whether they align with your standards.

Here are the top 10 best safety and security questions to ask daycare for infant:

Key Questions to Ask Daycare for Infant on Safety and Security

Are you licensed by the state? Are your teachers required to hold any certifications or degrees?

• Licensing ensures the daycare adheres to state regulations regarding health, safety, and staff qualifications. Additional certifications from third-party agencies or higher education degrees indicate the daycare meets higher standards. Ask to see these documents, as a reputable center will have them readily available.

What is the teacher-to-child ratio?

• For infants, a recommended ratio is typically 3:1 or 4:1, meaning one caregiver for every three to four infants. A low ratio is important because it ensures that your baby receives enough one-on-one attention, especially during feeding, diaper changes, and nap times.

Do you have CCTV or other security monitoring systems?

• CCTV allows for an extra layer of transparency and security. Daycares with CCTV provide an additional safety net by ensuring that both staff and parents can review footage if needed. This also discourages any inappropriate behavior and ensures children are always monitored.

Can I visit during a busy time or stop by unannounced?

• An open-door policy is a sign of trustworthiness and transparency. Being able to visit during high-traffic times (like drop-off and pick-up) lets you observe how staff handle chaotic periods, which is essential for maintaining your child’s safety in busier moments.

What is your vaccination policy for both staff and children?

• A solid vaccination policy minimizes the spread of contagious diseases. This is especially crucial for infants who have weaker immune systems. Confirm that both children and staff are required to follow vaccination guidelines, including any COVID-related precautions.

What is your sick policy?

• Ask about how the daycare handles illnesses, both in terms of children and staff. A well-enforced sick policy ensures that contagious illnesses don’t spread throughout the daycare, which helps protect your infant from constant exposure to germs.

What are your emergency procedures for fires, intruders, or other disasters?

• A daycare should have clear, written emergency protocols for fires, severe weather, and potential intruder situations. It’s important to know how often drills are conducted and whether staff are trained to react quickly and appropriately during emergencies.

How do you handle food allergies or dietary restrictions?

• With more children developing allergies, it’s essential that daycares take food restrictions seriously. Ask how they ensure that food allergens are kept separate and what protocols they have in place for an allergic reaction, including if staff are trained in using EpiPens.

How do you store and administer medication if needed?

• If your infant requires any medications, make sure the daycare has proper protocols for storage and administration. Medications should be securely stored, and documentation should be kept each time medication is given, ensuring your baby receives the correct dosage at the right time.

What security measures are in place for drop-offs and pick-ups?

• Secure drop-off and pick-up procedures are critical for preventing unauthorized individuals from accessing the daycare. Look for daycares that require ID checks, sign-in/sign-out logs, or even keycard entry systems to ensure that only approved individuals can pick up your child.

Why These Questions Matter:

• Licensing and Compliance: A licensed daycare guarantees that the facility complies with state safety and operational standards. Additional certifications like NAEYC accreditation signal a higher level of care and safety.
• Teacher-to-Child Ratios: A low ratio ensures that your infant receives the attention they need, especially in high-risk moments like feeding and napping. Infants require constant monitoring, and high ratios can lead to lapses in care.
• Security Transparency: CCTV and open-door policies provide peace of mind. You want to know that the daycare has nothing to hide and that your child is always supervised, even during high-traffic or chaotic periods.
• Health Safeguards: A strict vaccination and sick policy helps prevent the spread of diseases, which is critical for infants who have not yet built strong immune systems.
• Emergency Preparedness: Understanding a daycare’s emergency procedures ensures that in case of a disaster, staff know how to respond and prioritize your child’s safety. Regular drills and clear protocols reduce risk during critical events.
• Food and Medication Safety: Proper handling of food allergies and medications keeps your child safe. Given the rising rates of allergies in young children, ensuring your daycare is well-prepared to handle any medical situations is crucial.

By focusing on these questions to ask daycare for infant, you ensure that your child is entering a safe, secure environment where their well-being is the top priority.

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Curriculum and Development: Nurturing Growth from Day One

Infant daycare is not just about meeting basic needs like feeding and napping; it’s also about fostering early cognitive, social, and emotional development. A well-structured curriculum and a focus on developmental milestones ensure that your baby is engaging with their surroundings in ways that promote growth and learning. By asking the right questions, you can assess how a daycare integrates learning into everyday care and whether their approach aligns with your family’s goals for your child’s early education.

Here are top 10 best curriculum and development questions to ask daycare for infant, along with why they matter.

Key Questions to Ask Daycare for Infant on Curriculum and Development

What is your educational philosophy or curriculum?

• Every daycare should have a guiding philosophy or curriculum that shapes how they approach infant care and learning. Whether it’s Montessori-inspired, play-based, or focused on early literacy, it’s important to know how the daycare promotes cognitive and social development. Look for curriculums that focus on age-appropriate activities and foster exploration.

How do you support social-emotional development in infants?

• Social-emotional learning (SEL) is crucial even at the infant stage. It involves helping babies build confidence, recognize their emotions, and develop empathy. A daycare that prioritizes SEL will include practices like responsive caregiving, encouraging social interactions, and creating a secure, nurturing environment where babies feel emotionally supported.

What developmental milestones do you track, and how do you support them?

• Infants reach significant milestones in their first year, including rolling over, sitting up, crawling, and babbling. Ask how the daycare supports these milestones through activities like tummy time and interactive play. The center should have a clear understanding of developmental stages and create opportunities for babies to practice new skills.

How much outdoor time do infants get each day?

• Outdoor play isn’t just for toddlers—it’s also important for infants. Fresh air and natural light contribute to better sleep patterns, improved mood, and physical development. Inquire about how often babies are taken outside and what kind of outdoor spaces the daycare offers. Even short stroller rides or time spent in a shaded outdoor area can be beneficial.

Do you follow specific learning themes or activities for infants?

• Some daycares organize their activities around specific themes, such as colors, animals, or seasons. While infants are still developing their cognitive abilities, theme-based learning helps stimulate their curiosity and introduces them to new concepts in a fun and engaging way.

Do you use sensory or motor skill development activities?

• Sensory play, such as exposure to different textures, sounds, and sights, is essential for brain development in infants. Ask about activities that engage the senses and promote fine and gross motor skills, like reaching, grasping, and crawling. Sensory activities support neurological development and help babies understand their world.

Do you use technology (like tablets or TVs), and if so, how often?

• Screen time for infants should be minimal, according to most pediatric guidelines. However, some daycares may use technology to play soft music or nature sounds. It’s important to ask about their approach to screen time and make sure it aligns with your views on minimizing screen exposure during the early developmental years.

How do you incorporate play-based learning into the day?

• Play is the natural way infants learn and develop. A good daycare will have structured and unstructured playtime built into the day. Play-based learning helps babies develop cognitive, social, and motor skills by allowing them to explore their environment and interact with others.

Do you group children by age? If so, how does my infant fit into the group?

• Some daycares mix age groups, while others keep infants separated from older toddlers. It’s essential to ask how your infant will be grouped and whether the activities and care will be appropriate for their age and developmental stage.

How do you handle transitions between age groups?

• Eventually, your infant will age out of the infant room and move into a toddler group. Ask about the daycare’s transition process and how they ensure your baby is ready for the change. A smooth transition is important for minimizing stress and maintaining consistency in your child’s care.

Why These Questions Matter:

• Educational Philosophy: A well-defined curriculum or philosophy ensures that the daycare is intentional about your baby’s development, beyond just basic care. This approach promotes cognitive, emotional, and social growth, which sets the foundation for future learning.
• Social-Emotional Development: SEL helps infants build essential skills like emotional regulation, empathy, and trust. A daycare that emphasizes social-emotional learning will help your baby develop secure attachments, which are critical in the early years.
• Developmental Milestones: Tracking and supporting developmental milestones ensures your child is progressing as expected. Daycares that offer appropriate activities, such as tummy time and sensory play, help infants practice and achieve these important developmental goals.
• Outdoor and Sensory Play: Time spent outdoors and in sensory-rich environments promotes physical and neurological development. Daycares that prioritize sensory experiences help infants develop their motor skills, coordination, and brain function.

By focusing on these questions to ask daycare for infant about curriculum and development, you can ensure that your child is in an environment that fosters learning and growth. This not only gives you peace of mind but also ensures that your child is developing the skills they need to thrive, both emotionally and cognitively.

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Health, Nutrition, and Daily Routines: Supporting Your Infant’s Well-Being

An infant’s health, nutrition, and daily routine are key factors in their growth and development. Daycares must create an environment that meets each baby’s specific needs, from ensuring they’re properly fed and rested to promoting healthy habits and hygiene. Understanding how a daycare handles your baby’s feeding, sleep schedules, and overall daily care is essential to making the right decision for your family.

Below are top 10 best health, nutrition, and daily routine questions to ask daycare for infants, along with why they’re important and what you should be looking for in the answers.

Key Questions to Ask Daycare for Infant on Health, Nutrition, and Daily Routines

What does a typical daily routine look like for infants?

• Knowing the daycare’s daily schedule helps you understand how structured the environment is. For infants, routines should include consistent feeding, nap times, and plenty of opportunities for play and interaction. Look for a routine that balances structure with the flexibility needed to adapt to each baby’s unique needs.

How are naps handled? Do you follow individualized schedules or group nap times?

• Infants need regular naps to support brain development and growth. A daycare should accommodate individualized nap schedules rather than enforce a one-size-fits-all group nap time, particularly for younger infants. Each baby’s sleep needs can vary significantly, so the daycare should be flexible in providing rest when needed.

How often are diapers changed?

• Frequent diaper changes are important to prevent diaper rash and keep babies comfortable. Ask how often diapers are checked and changed, and ensure the daycare has clear hygiene practices, such as washing hands before and after changes. Generally, diapers should be checked at least every two hours.

Do you provide meals and snacks, or do parents need to pack them?

• Some daycares provide meals, while others require parents to bring food. If the center provides food, ask about their nutritional standards. Meals should include balanced options that meet dietary guidelines for infants, and parents should feel confident that the daycare is promoting healthy eating habits.

Do you accommodate breastmilk, formula, or special dietary needs?

• If you are breastfeeding or using formula, it’s important that the daycare can store and handle breastmilk or formula safely. Ask about their storage practices (e.g., refrigeration) and whether they are familiar with handling pumped milk. If your baby has allergies or dietary restrictions, ensure the daycare can accommodate these needs without cross-contamination.

How are bottles stored and warmed for feedings?

• Proper bottle storage and warming practices are crucial for safety and hygiene. The daycare should have a clear process for storing breastmilk or formula, such as refrigeration, and a safe method for warming bottles (e.g., warm water baths rather than microwaves). This ensures your baby’s bottle is safely prepared for feeding.

Do you feed babies on demand or by a set schedule?

• Feeding on demand is often recommended for infants, especially during the first few months. However, some babies thrive on set feeding schedules. Ask whether the daycare is flexible in following your preferred feeding routine and how they accommodate the needs of each individual infant, including hunger cues and feeding times.

Can parents visit during feeding times, especially for breastfeeding?

• If you plan to continue breastfeeding, ask whether the daycare allows parents to visit during feeding times. Some centers offer designated breastfeeding rooms where you can nurse your child in a comfortable and private space. This flexibility is important if you want to maintain a breastfeeding routine.

How do you introduce solids to infants, and what is the process for transitioning to table foods?

• As your baby grows, they will transition from breastmilk or formula to solids. It’s important to ask how the daycare handles this transition. Do they follow your pediatrician’s recommendations? Are they experienced with baby-led weaning or spoon-feeding? Understanding their process will help ensure consistency with how you’re introducing solids at home.

Do you provide daily reports on feeding, naps, and diaper changes?

• Keeping track of your baby’s day is important for understanding their overall well-being. Many daycares provide daily reports that outline when your child napped, how much they ate, and how often their diaper was changed. This transparency helps parents stay informed about their baby’s routine and identify any potential issues early on.

Why These Questions Matter:

• Routine Consistency: Infants thrive on predictable routines, which help them feel safe and secure. By asking about the daycare’s daily schedule, feeding practices, and nap routines, you can assess whether the center will offer your child the stability they need while also being flexible enough to meet individual needs.
• Health and Hygiene: Proper diaper-changing practices, safe storage of bottles, and accommodation for dietary restrictions are all critical for maintaining your baby’s health. Daycares that prioritize hygiene and nutrition help prevent common issues like diaper rash or foodborne illnesses, keeping your infant safe.
• Feeding Flexibility: Whether you are breastfeeding, formula feeding, or transitioning to solids, ensuring the daycare can handle your baby’s specific nutritional needs is key. Look for centers that can store breastmilk safely, follow feeding schedules, and accommodate special diets without cross-contamination risks.
• Parent Communication: Receiving daily reports on your baby’s routine helps you stay connected to their day, even when you’re not there. It also allows you to monitor their well-being and ensure they’re thriving in the daycare environment.

By asking these questions to ask daycare for infant about health, nutrition, and daily routines, you ensure that your child is in an environment where their basic needs are met consistently, safely, and in a way that supports their overall development.

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Communication: Staying Informed and Connected with Your Daycare

Communication between parents and daycare staff is key to ensuring that you stay informed about your infant’s well-being. A daycare should provide regular updates about your child’s routine, developmental milestones, and any concerns that arise during the day. Knowing how and when the daycare will communicate with you helps establish trust and gives you peace of mind.

Below are top 10 best communication questions to ask daycare for infant, along with the reasons they’re essential and what you should expect in the answers.

Key Questions to Ask Daycare for Infant on Communication

How do you communicate with parents throughout the day?

• Effective communication is crucial, especially for working parents who want to stay connected to their child’s activities. Some daycares use apps to send real-time updates on feedings, naps, and diaper changes, while others provide daily written reports. Make sure their communication method fits your needs, whether it’s a digital app, phone calls, or paper updates.

Do you use a parent communication app? If so, which one?

• Many daycares now use apps that allow parents to track their baby’s activities throughout the day, such as naps, meals, and even diaper changes. Apps like Brightwheel or HiMama offer real-time updates and photos, which can give you peace of mind during the workday. Make sure to ask about the app’s features and whether you can access it on your phone.

Will I receive daily reports about my infant’s day (feeding, naps, diaper changes)?

• Daily reports provide transparency and help you track your infant’s routine. These reports should cover the basics, such as how much your baby ate, when they napped, and how often their diaper was changed. This information is essential for monitoring your child’s health and ensuring consistency between daycare and home.

How do you communicate if there’s a concern about my child’s behavior or development?

• Knowing how the daycare will handle behavioral or developmental concerns is crucial. You want to be informed immediately if something requires attention, whether it’s related to sleep, feeding, or motor skills. The staff should be proactive in addressing these concerns and discussing solutions with you.

What is your emergency contact procedure?

• In the case of an emergency, such as illness or injury, the daycare should have a clear and efficient process for contacting you or another authorized individual. Ask about how quickly they notify parents and whether they attempt to contact other caregivers if the primary contact is unavailable.

How do you handle parent feedback or concerns?

• It’s important that the daycare is open to feedback and willing to address concerns as they arise. Whether you have questions about your child’s care or suggestions for improvements, the staff should be receptive and responsive. Ask how they handle parent concerns and whether there is a formal process for communication.

Can I schedule regular meetings with the caregivers to discuss my child’s progress?

• Regular check-ins with caregivers give you a chance to discuss your child’s development and any areas of concern. Some daycares schedule parent-teacher meetings quarterly or as needed. Having these discussions helps ensure that your baby’s developmental milestones are being tracked and that both daycare and parents are on the same page.

Will I be notified immediately if my child isn’t feeling well?

• Quick communication about health concerns is essential, especially for infants. You want to know immediately if your child has a fever, is vomiting, or seems unwell. Confirm that the daycare will notify you at the first sign of illness and ask about their procedures for handling sick children.

How do you communicate about developmental milestones or delays?

• Developmental milestones are important indicators of your infant’s growth. Daycares that track these milestones will notify you if they observe any delays or concerns. It’s important that the daycare communicates these observations clearly and works with you to address any developmental challenges early on.

How often are photos or updates shared with parents?

• Some daycares send photos or updates throughout the day to help parents stay connected. This might be through a communication app or email. While not essential, receiving photos or updates can offer reassurance that your child is happy and engaged. Ask how frequently photos are shared and whether there are any privacy protocols in place.

Why These Questions Matter:

• Transparency and Trust: Daycares that communicate frequently and openly with parents help build trust. Whether it’s daily updates on your baby’s routine or immediate alerts in case of emergencies, staying informed ensures that your child’s care is consistent with your expectations.
• Proactive Communication: Regular feedback on your child’s development, behavior, and health allows you to stay engaged in their care and quickly address any issues that arise. Clear communication channels make it easier to collaborate with caregivers on solutions and next steps.
• Parental Reassurance: Frequent updates, especially through apps that provide real-time insights, give working parents peace of mind. Knowing exactly when your child naps, eats, or plays helps you stay connected, even when you can’t be there in person.
• Handling Emergencies: Immediate and efficient communication during emergencies is non-negotiable. Knowing how the daycare contacts you in these situations ensures you can respond quickly and that your child’s safety is prioritized.

By discovering these questions to ask daycare for infant about communication, you can ensure you’re always informed about your baby’s day. This will not only give you peace of mind but also allow you to maintain consistency between home and daycare, ensuring your child receives the best possible care.

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Staff and Facility Operations: Ensuring Quality and Stability for Your Infant

When evaluating a daycare, it’s essential to look closely at the staff and facility operations. The experience, qualifications, and stability of the staff are crucial factors in ensuring your infant receives the best care. High staff turnover, lack of proper training, or disorganized management can lead to inconsistent care, which is especially concerning for infants who need stable, nurturing environments.

Here are the top 10 best questions to ask daycare for infant related to staff and facilities, helping you ensure the daycare operates smoothly and maintains high standards of care.

Key Questions to Ask Daycare for Infant on Staff and Facility Operations

What are the qualifications and experience of the staff?

• Daycare staff should ideally have education in early childhood development or a related field. Understanding the staff’s qualifications will give you insight into the level of expertise caring for your infant.

How long has the longest staff member been at the center? The shortest?

• This provides insight into staff turnover. High turnover can be a red flag, suggesting issues with management or the workplace environment. Continuity of care is critical for infants, who thrive on consistency.

What ongoing training do staff members receive?

• It’s important to know that staff are trained in current best practices, including infant safety, child development, and behavioral management. Regular professional development ensures that staff are up to date with the latest childcare research.

What is your staff turnover rate?

• Stability among the caregivers is important for building trust with your child. Low turnover indicates satisfied staff, which typically translates to better care for children.

How are new staff vetted before they are hired?

• Background checks, interviews, and reference checks are crucial for ensuring that the daycare staff are not only qualified but also trustworthy. Ensure the daycare thoroughly vets any new hires.

How do you ensure that staff-to-child ratios are maintained during busy times?

• While staff-to-child ratios may meet state guidelines, it’s important to ask how they are maintained during busy times or staff breaks. Ensuring that there’s always adequate supervision, especially during peak times, is vital for safety.

What is your policy for staff sick days or vacations?

• Inquire about how the daycare handles staff absences. Are substitutes available, and do they have the same level of training and qualifications as regular staff members?

What is the release policy for pick-ups and drop-offs?

• Clear protocols for who can pick up your child, including ID verification and sign-in/sign-out procedures, are essential for security.

Do you offer part-time or flexible scheduling for infants?

• Depending on your family’s needs, having the option for part-time care or flexible hours can be beneficial. Ensure that these options are clearly outlined and don’t compromise care quality.

What are your payment policies? Do you charge for sick days or vacation days?

• Understanding the financial aspects of the daycare, including payment schedules, late fees, and whether you’re charged for missed days, helps prevent any surprises and ensures the daycare aligns with your budget.

Why These Questions Matter:

• Staff Stability and Experience: Low turnover and experienced staff contribute to a stable and nurturing environment, which is especially important for infants who need consistent, familiar faces for their care.
• Professional Development: Ongoing staff training ensures caregivers are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills in infant care, development, and safety practices.
• Operational Efficiency: Clear policies around scheduling, payments, and staff absences indicate that the daycare operates smoothly, which translates to better care for your child.

By asking these questions, you’ll gain a better understanding of the daycare’s internal operations and whether they align with your expectations for quality and stability.

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Conclusion: Make the Right Choice for Your Family

Choosing a daycare is a pivotal decision for growing families, especially when balancing the demands of work and the desire for high-quality care. By knowing the top 50 questions to ask daycare for infant, you ensure that your child is not only in a safe, nurturing environment but also one that supports their growth and development. Trust your instincts, ask the right questions, and select a daycare that gives you confidence in your baby’s care while allowing you to focus on building your family’s future.

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About the Authors: We’re a husband and wife team with over 30 years of experience in finance, investments, and marketing, committed to helping growing families make informed decisions. Think of us as that older sibling who’s been through it before and ready to share our mistakes and successes. Learn more about our journey from insecurity to financial security where we conquered adversity to reach the top 10% of our peers.

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