1. Staff is key!  Look for attentive and caring teachers.  You should see lots of smiles and warm, patient interactions.  Ask about the longevity of teachers as consistency provides a secure base for children.
  1. Is the facility safe?   Are outlets appropriately covered, is there a procedure for security at drop off and pick up times, is the playground fenced, are the teachers backgrounds checked, and are teacher’s first aid and CPR certified?
  1. Is the school clean?  You may see toys around the room and that is a good sign that children have many opportunities for learning in different environments and with different materials.  What you want to look for: are the floors clean, is there a system in place for toys that have been in children’s mouths, is the facility cleaned on a regular basis?
  1. Ask about the curriculum.  Are lesson plans posted, do teachers assess children, are there a good supply of materials available to children?
  1. Trust your instinct!  You should hear happy sounds, respectful communications, and warm interactions regardless of the room you visit! 
You can email staff@kangarookidschildcare.comfor a complete checklist of what to look for when visiting a school.