Questions to Ask a Child Care Provider (Ontario Checklist)
January 16, 2026
Questions to Ask a Child Care Provider (Ontario Checklist)
Finding child care can feel overwhelming—especially when every option sounds similar at first. This checklist makes it easier to compare providers confidently, ask the right questions, and choose care that fits your child and your family.
Before you visit (quick prep)
Bring these with you (or keep them in your phone):
Your child’s age and start date.
Your ideal schedule (drop-off/pick-up times).
Any allergies, medications, or special routines.
1) Availability & fit
Ask:
Do you have space for my child, or a waitlist?
Do you offer full-time, part-time, or flexible schedules?
How do drop-off and pick-up times work?
What to listen for: clear answers, no pressure, and a plan that matches your routine.
2) Health & safety
Ask:
Are you licensed or unlicensed?
What happens when a child is sick?
What safety measures are in place (first aid kit, detectors, gates, etc.)?
What’s your emergency plan?
Who can pick up my child, and how do you confirm identity?
What to listen for: specific routines (not vague promises) and confident, consistent practices.
3) Food & nutrition
Ask:
What snacks/meals are provided?
Can you accommodate allergies or dietary needs?
Is food prepared onsite or brought in?
What to listen for: clear allergy procedures and a willingness to communicate.
4) Learning & play (what your child’s day looks like)
Ask:
What will my child do throughout the day?
How much time is spent outdoors?
What happens if a child is upset or having a hard day?
What to listen for: calm routines, lots of play, and age-appropriate expectations.
5) Communication with parents
Ask:
How do you communicate with families (daily updates, messages, notes)?
When can parents visit, and how are concerns handled?
What to listen for: transparency and a communication style that matches what you need.
6) Provider training & preparedness
Ask:
What training or qualifications do you have?
Who has first aid/CPR training?
What happens if the provider is sick or away?
What to listen for: a clear backup plan and a professional approach to safety and continuity.
Quick tip: take notes and compare
After each visit, rate each provider 1–5 on: Safety, Communication, Routine, Fit, and Comfort. The “right” choice is usually the one that feels clear, calm, and consistent.
Want help narrowing it down?
If you’re not sure where to start, enroll with BeyondCrayons and share your needs. Then you can use this checklist while reviewing matched options.
Such a helpful checklist. We didn’t realize how many important questions to ask until we read this—especially around safety, sick policies, and communication. It made our provider visits feel way less stressful.