Finding the right childcare program is one of the most important decisions a family can make. Whether you’re preparing for your child’s very first day of care or considering a change, the search can feel overwhelming. What questions should you ask? What should you really be looking for?
The good news: high-quality childcare programs share several key characteristics that you can spot with a discerning eye. Here’s a clear, parent-friendly guide to help you evaluate any program with confidence.
1. Warm, Responsive Relationships
The heart of early childhood education is the relationship between teachers and children. During your visit, look for:
- Teachers who kneel to meet children at eye level
- Gentle tones, smiles, and encouragement
- Adults who genuinely seem to enjoy children
Research shows that strong relationships build the foundation for learning, emotional development, and security. If the staff seems rushed or disengaged—or if high turnover is mentioned often—that’s a red flag.
2. A Safe, Clean, and Purposeful Environment
A high-quality program balances safety with a sense of exploration.
Look for:
- Cleanliness and well-maintained classrooms
- Secure entrances and clear safety procedures
- Organized spaces with defined learning areas (dramatic play, blocks, art, sensory, quiet spaces)
- Child-sized furniture and materials
If you feel at ease walking through the building, that’s a strong indicator your child will feel at ease too.
3. Play-Based, Developmentally Appropriate Learning
Young children learn best through purposeful play. Quality programs offer:
- Hands-on activities
- Opportunities for creativity and inquiry
- Outdoor exploration
- Teachers who guide learning instead of directing it
Avoid programs that rely heavily on worksheets or long periods of sitting—those approaches aren’t aligned with early childhood best practices.
4. Experienced, Well-Trained Educators
The educators make the difference. Ask about:
- Teacher qualifications
- Ongoing professional development
- Years of experience in early childhood settings
High-quality programs invest in their educators because strong teaching leads to strong outcomes.
5. Clear Communication and Family Partnership
You should never feel in the dark about your child’s day.
Quality programs provide:
- Daily communication (app, email, or written notes)
- Opportunities for parent-teacher conversations
- A genuine openness to questions and concerns
- Family engagement events and community-building
If communication feels warm, transparent, and consistent, you’ve likely found a program that values partnership.
6. A Philosophy You Believe In
Every program has a worldview that shapes how children are cared for and taught. Ask about:
- Their vision for child development
- How they support social-emotional learning
- Approaches to discipline, conflict resolution, and inclusion
- How they nurture curiosity and independence
The best fit is a program whose philosophy matches your hopes for your child.
7. Trusting Your Instincts
You know your child better than anyone. As you tour:
- Do you feel welcomed?
- Do children seem happy and engaged?
- Can you picture your child thriving here?
Your instincts matter. If something feels off, explore more options. If something feels right, lean into that.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a childcare center is choosing a partner in your child’s growth. Look for warmth, intentionality, communication, and a place where children are known and celebrated. A quality program doesn’t just watch your child—it nurtures them, inspires them, and helps them flourish. And at BELA, that’s exactly what we strive to do every single day.
Your child deserves a nurturing, high-quality learning environment—and BELA is ready to provide it. If you’re exploring childcare options, now is the perfect time to connect with our team, tour our beautiful campus, and learn how our programs can support your child’s growth from infancy through Pre-K. Click below to schedule a visit and take the next step toward joining the BELA community.