Families exploring day care want a place where their child feels safe, supported, and excited to learn each day. With many early learning programs across the city, it can be challenging to know exactly what to look for during a tour.
This day care checklist in Philadelphia, PA, is designed to simplify that process. Bring it with you as you visit centers throughout Fishtown and surrounding communities so you can compare programs confidently and choose a learning environment where your child can truly thrive.
- Educational Approach
Why it matters: A thoughtful educational foundation helps children grow with confidence, curiosity, and essential early skills.
Questions to Ask
- What curriculum guides daily learning?
- How do teachers plan lessons for various age groups?
- How is developmental progress observed and communicated?
- What programs are available across age levels?
- How does play support early literacy, math, and social-emotional development?
What to Observe
- Learning areas arranged for hands-on discovery
- Children actively engaged in purposeful play
- Teachers extending learning through conversation and modeling curiosity
- Health & Safety
Why it matters: Families need the reassurance that their child’s well-being is the top priority.
Questions to Ask
- How is access to the building monitored?
- What is the visitor check-in process?
- How are allergies and dietary needs handled?
- What is the illness and exclusion policy?
- Who is trained in CPR and first aid?
- How are emergency procedures practiced?
What to Observe
- Clean, well-organized classrooms
- A predictable and secure check-in process
- Staff who appear attentive, confident, and proactive
- Environment: Indoors & Outdoors
Why it matters: Children learn through the environments they explore—both inside the building and outdoors.
Questions to Ask
- Are materials accessible for independent exploration?
- How often do children go outside?
- Is the play area safe, shaded, and developmentally appropriate?
- Do indoor spaces support curiosity, independence, and creativity?
What to Observe
- Defined learning zones with open-ended materials
- Calming spaces for reading or quiet time
- Outdoor areas designed for active play and discovery
- Staffing & Educators
Why it matters: Teachers guide your child’s day, shape their routines, and support their emotional growth.
Questions to Ask
- What is the child-to-teacher ratio?
- What training do educators receive before entering a classroom?
- Is ongoing professional development supported?
- How does the center maintain consistency in staffing?
What to Observe
- Teachers engaging warmly at children’s eye level
- Respectful, patient communication
- A classroom atmosphere that feels steady and well supported
- Interactions With Children
Why it matters: Positive relationships help children feel secure, confident, and ready to explore.
- Questions to Ask
- How do teachers build meaningful connections with children?
- How is independence supported throughout the day?
- How are peer conflicts resolved?
- What strategies support emotional learning and self-regulation?
What to Observe
- Children interacting comfortably with teachers
- Encouraging language woven into daily routines
- Calm, thoughtful guidance during challenging moments
- Family & Community Partnership
Why it matters: Strong communication and collaboration help children feel supported both at home and at school.
Questions to Ask
- How are daily updates shared with families?
- Are parent-teacher conferences offered?
- How is developmental progress communicated?
- What does the enrollment process involve?
- How are families invited into the school community?
What to Observe
- Clear communication tools or displays
- Staff who take the time to answer questions and connect with parents
- Values & Philosophy
Why it matters: A center’s values influence its classroom culture, expectations, and approach to learning.
Questions to Ask
- What philosophy guides the early learning experience?
- How is inclusion reflected in the classroom?
- How does the program balance structure with child-led exploration?
- What values guide teacher-child interactions?
What to Observe
- Inclusive books, toys, and materials
- Comforting areas for emotional regulation
- Teachers modeling empathy, patience, and kindness
- Cost & Program Benefits
Why it matters: Transparent information helps families evaluate programs confidently and understand the value of each offering.
Questions to Ask
- What is the tuition for each age group?
- What does tuition include?
- Are meals, supplies, or enrichment activities part of the cost?
- Are additional fees required?
- Are sibling discounts offered?
- What sets this program apart from others in Philadelphia, PA?
What to Observe
- A clear explanation of tuition and policies
- A level of care and quality that reflects the investment
How to Use This Day Care Checklist During a Tour
- Bring it with you—on paper or on your phone
- Ask the questions that matter most to your family
- Take notes right after each tour
- Pay attention to how your child responds to the space
A day care that feels warm, organized, and aligned with your family’s values is always worth it.
A Final Word of Encouragement
Choosing day care is an important moment for your family, and having a clear checklist makes the process much smoother. As you explore programs across Fishtown and greater Philadelphia, use this guide to compare learning environments thoughtfully and find a place where your child can grow with confidence.
When you’re ready, Celebree School of Fishtown would be delighted to walk through your checklist with you and show you what early learning looks like in our classrooms.
