If you’re exploring day care options in Glen Burnie, MD, you’re likely hoping to find a place where your child can feel comfortable, supported, and excited to learn each day. With so many programs to compare, knowing exactly what to look for during a tour can make the decision feel far more manageable.
This day care checklist gives you a simple, reliable way to evaluate each center you visit. Use it to guide your questions, make observations, and understand how each program approaches learning, safety, and family partnership.
- Educational Approach
Why it matters: A thoughtful learning environment helps children begin building confidence, curiosity, and important early skills.
Questions to Ask
What curriculum guides classroom learning?
How do teachers plan lessons for different developmental stages?
How is progress observed and shared with families?
What programs are offered across age groups?
How does play contribute to early math, literacy, and social-emotional development?
What to Observe
- Learning spaces set up for hands-on exploration
- Children actively engaged in purposeful play
- Teachers encouraging children’s ideas and helping them explore new concepts
- Health & Safety
Why it matters: A secure, well-managed environment helps families feel at ease each day.
Questions to Ask
- How is access to the building monitored?
- What happens when visitors arrive?
- How are allergies or dietary needs managed?
- What is the illness and exclusion policy?
- Which staff members hold CPR and first aid certifications?
- How are emergency procedures practiced?
What to Observe
- Clean, well-maintained classrooms
- A smooth and predictable check-in experience
- Staff who appear attentive and confident in safety routines
- Environment: Indoors & Outdoors
Why it matters: Children learn best in spaces that encourage independence, curiosity, and creativity.
Questions to Ask
- Are materials easy for children to access?
- How often do children spend time outdoors?
- Is the playground shaded, clean, and age-appropriate?
- Do indoor classroom layouts support exploration and movement?
What to Observe
- Defined learning areas with varied materials
- Comfortable corners for calming or quiet moments
- Outdoor areas designed for discovery and imaginative play
- Staffing & Educators
Why it matters: The adults in the classroom shape your child’s daily experience, routine, and emotional security.
Questions to Ask
- What is the child-to-teacher ratio?
- What training do educators complete before leading a classroom?
- Is continued professional development encouraged?
- How does the center maintain staffing consistency?
What to Observe
- Teachers communicating warmly at children’s eye level
- Respectful, patient interactions
- A classroom atmosphere that feels balanced and well supported
- Interactions With Children
Why it matters: Meaningful relationships help children feel safe, understood, and ready to learn.
Questions to Ask
- How do teachers build trust with children?
- How is independence encouraged during daily routines?
- How are conflicts handled thoughtfully?
- What strategies support emotional learning and self-regulation?
What to Observe
- Children approaching teachers comfortably
- Encouraging language used throughout the day
- Calm, supportive guidance during challenging moments
- Family & Community Partnership
Why it matters: Strong communication between families and educators creates consistency and comfort for children.
Questions to Ask
- How are daily updates shared with parents?
- Are parent-teacher conferences offered?
- How is developmental progress communicated?
- What does the enrollment process include?
- How are families invited into the school community?
What to Observe
- Visible communication tools or digital platforms
- Staff who take the time to answer questions and connect with families
- Values & Philosophy
Why it matters: A program’s philosophy influences everything from classroom culture to daily expectations.
Questions to Ask
- What philosophy guides daily learning?
- How does the center approach inclusion and diversity?
- How does the program balance structure with child-led exploration?
- What values guide teacher-child interactions?
What to Observe
- Inclusive materials and diverse classroom resources
- Calm, comforting areas for emotional support
- Teachers modeling empathy, patience, and respect
- Cost & Program Benefits
Why it matters: Clear information makes it easier to compare programs and understand the full scope of what’s included.
Questions to Ask
- What is the tuition for each age group?
- What does tuition include?
- Are meals, supplies, or enrichment activities included?
- Are additional fees required?
- Are sibling discounts available?
- What sets this program apart from others in Glen Burnie, MD?
What to Observe
- Clear explanations of costs and expectations
- A level of care and quality that aligns with the investment
How to Use This Day Care Checklist During a Tour
- Bring it with you—printed or digital
- Ask the questions that matter most to your family
- Write down quick notes after each visit
- Notice how your child responds to the space and the staff
A day care that feels warm, organized, and aligned with your family’s values is always worth deeper consideration.
A Final Word of Encouragement
Choosing day care is a meaningful moment for your family, and this checklist is here to make the process feel manageable. As you explore programs in Glen Burnie, use these guiding questions and observations to help you compare each option and find a place where your child can learn and grow with confidence.
Whenever you’re ready, Celebree School of Glen Burnie would be happy to walk through your checklist with you during a tour.
