Child Care Visit Questionnaire

Parent Daycare Visit Questionnaire

Use this checklist when touring any child care or daycare center. Bring it with you to compare your options — and see how Northshore Early Learning Center already meets these expectations.

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General Care & Safety

• What is your child-to-teacher ratio in each classroom?

  • ✅ We follow all Massachusetts EEC requirements for ratios. Infants (1:3), Toddlers (1:4), and Preschool/Pre-K (1:10). Low ratios mean more personal attention for your child.

• Are all teachers licensed through the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC)?

  • ✅ Yes. Every lead teacher is licensed by EEC, and assistants are trained and supervised under EEC standards.

• How do you handle emergencies or medical needs?

  • ✅ Staff are trained in CPR and First Aid. We maintain clear emergency plans and communicate with parents immediately.

• Can parents make unannounced visits?

  • ✅ Yes. Parents are welcome to visit at any time during operating hours.

• What security measures are in place for drop-off and pick-up?

  • ✅ Secure entry with restricted access, strict ID verification for pick-ups, and sign-in/sign-out procedures.

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Curriculum & Learning

• Do you follow a structured curriculum?

  • ✅ Yes. We follow a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with Massachusetts early learning standards.

• How do you help children transition between infant, toddler, and preschool classrooms?

  • ✅ Transitions are gradual, with overlap between teachers and classrooms to make children comfortable. Parents are always part of the process.

• How do you support children with different learning needs or developmental delays?

  • ✅ We partner with families and outside specialists to provide services right in the classroom. Our teachers adapt activities to meet each child’s needs.

• Do you offer multi-language learning, and how is it integrated daily?

  • ✅ Yes. Every classroom is multi-lingual (English, Spanish, Portuguese, Haitian Creole). Children hear and interact in all four languages daily through songs, stories, and conversations.

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Teacher Experience & Turnover

• How are teachers hired and trained?

  • ✅ We carefully screen candidates, prioritizing experience, education, and warmth. Every new teacher receives onboarding and mentorship.

• What is your staff turnover rate?

  • ✅ Very low compared to industry averages. Many teachers have been with us for years, providing stability for families.

• Do teachers receive ongoing professional development?

  • ✅ Yes. We pay for required professional development and offer additional training to support growth.

• How do you support teachers so they can focus on children?

  • ✅ We handle administrative tasks digitally and provide planning time during the workday so teachers can focus on children, not paperwork.

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Parent Communication

• How do you keep parents informed during the day? (Apps, calls, notes)

  • ✅ We use the Brightwheel app to share real-time updates, photos, daily logs, and milestones.

• Can parents speak directly with teachers daily?

  • ✅ Yes. Teachers are available at drop-off, pick-up, and through Brightwheel messaging.

• How do you handle parent concerns or feedback?

  • ✅ We encourage open communication. Concerns are addressed quickly with teachers and directors available to meet anytime.

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Daily Routine & Environment

• What does a typical day look like in each age group?

  • ✅ Infants: bonding, naps, sensory play.

  • ✅ Toddlers: circle time, hands-on play, outdoor time.

  • ✅ Preschool/Pre-K: learning centers, early academics, projects, outdoor play.

• How do you balance play, rest, and structured activities?

  • ✅ Each day blends structured learning, free play, meals, and naps to support children’s natural rhythms.

• What meals or snacks are provided?

  • ✅ We provide nutritious meals and snacks daily, with accommodations for dietary needs.

• How do you handle naps and rest time?

  • ✅ Infants nap according to their schedule. Toddlers and preschoolers have a quiet rest period each afternoon.

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Health & Wellness

• How do you manage illnesses or contagious conditions?

  • ✅ We follow EEC health guidelines. Sick children are sent home to recover, and parents are notified immediately.

• What is your policy for administering medication?

  • ✅ Medications are only given with written parent permission and a doctor’s note, following strict procedures.

• How do you handle allergies or dietary restrictions?

  • ✅ Allergies are documented in Brightwheel and posted in classrooms. We adjust meals/snacks and train staff on allergy protocols.

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Financial & Administrative

• Do you accept Child Care Financial Assistance (CCFA) or daycare vouchers?

  • ✅ Yes — proudly. We do not limit voucher spots and support families through the process.

• Are there waitlists for voucher families?

  • ✅ No. Voucher families are treated the same as private-pay families.

• What is your tuition/payment schedule?

  • ✅ Tuition is billed bi-weekly. Families receive invoices digitally and can pay online or in person.

• What happens if a family’s schedule or financial situation changes?

  • ✅ We work with families to adjust schedules or assist with voucher applications. Our goal is to keep care accessible and consistent.Child Care Visit Questionnaire