What to Look For When Choosing a Daycare

Choosing a daycare is one of the most significant decisions a parent makes. You're trusting another team of adults with your child's safety, happiness, and early development — often for 40+ hours a week. It deserves careful consideration.

Whether you're searching in Manchester, NH or anywhere else, here are the most important things to look for — and the questions to ask on your tour.

1. State Licensing and Safety Record

This is non-negotiable. Any reputable daycare should be fully licensed by the state and in good standing. In New Hampshire, childcare centers are licensed and regularly inspected by the NH Division for Children, Youth and Families (DCYF).

Ask to see their license and inquire about their most recent inspection report. A confident, quality center will have no hesitation sharing this.

2. Staff Turnover — The Most Overlooked Factor

Low staff turnover is one of the strongest indicators of a healthy daycare environment. When the same teachers are there year after year, children develop deep, trusting relationships with their caregivers — which research shows is critical for healthy development.

High turnover, on the other hand, creates instability and disrupts the attachment children need. Ask directly: "How long have your teachers been here?" If the answer is months rather than years, pay attention.

3. Teacher-to-Child Ratios

NH state regulations set minimum ratios, but the best centers often do better. Lower ratios mean more individual attention for your child. Ask about ratios for each age group:

• Infants (under 1 year): ideally 1:3 or 1:4
• Toddlers (1–2 years): ideally 1:4 or 1:5
• Preschool (3–4 years): ideally 1:8 or better

4. Curriculum and Learning Philosophy

You don't need to become an early childhood education expert, but understanding the approach helps. Quality programs balance structured learning with free play — because play is how young children learn best.

Ask: "What does a typical morning look like?" and "How do you support children who are ahead or behind developmentally?" The answers reveal a lot about whether the curriculum is rigid or truly child-centered.

5. Communication With Parents

A great daycare keeps you informed. Look for centers that provide:

• Daily updates on what your child did, ate, and how they felt
• Regular parent-teacher check-ins or conferences
• An open-door policy for questions and concerns
• Quick, clear communication when something unusual happens

Ask current parents how quickly the center responds to questions. Word of mouth from enrolled families is the most honest feedback you'll get.

6. Cleanliness and Physical Environment

The facility should feel clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully organized. Look for:

• Clean play areas and age-appropriate materials
• Safe outdoor space for physical play
• Proper hand-washing stations accessible to children
• Clear emergency exits and safety protocols

Pay attention to how the space feels — warm and inviting, or institutional and bare? Young children thrive in environments that feel like a second home.

7. Your Gut Feeling on the Tour

After checking all the boxes, trust your instincts. Watch the children — do they seem happy and engaged? Watch the teachers — do they get down to the children's level, speak kindly, and seem genuinely invested? Does the director answer your questions openly and warmly?

You know your child better than anyone. The right place will feel right when you walk in.

Questions to Ask on Every Daycare Tour

1. What is your staff turnover rate?
2. How do you handle separation anxiety?
3. What is your sick child policy?
4. How do you communicate with parents day-to-day?
5. What is your approach to discipline?
6. Are you accepting children on state assistance programs?
7. What is included in tuition — meals, supplies, activities?