Searching for day care in Wilmington, DE—especially around the Pike Creek community—can feel like a big task. Families want a place where their child feels safe, supported, and free to explore, but it isn’t always obvious what separates a good program from a great one. A thoughtful checklist can make your tours clearer, calmer, and more productive.
This day care checklist in Wilmington, DE, was created to help you evaluate each center you visit. Bring it with you as you explore programs across Pike Creek so you can focus on the details that matter most for your child’s growth and your peace of mind.
- Educational Approach
Why it matters: A meaningful early learning experience helps children build confidence, curiosity, and important foundational skills.
- Questions to Ask
- What curriculum shapes the classroom experience?
- How do teachers plan activities for different developmental levels?
- How is progress observed, recorded, and shared with families?
- What programs are available across age groups?
- How does play support early literacy, math, and social-emotional learning?
What to Observe
- Learning centers arranged for hands-on discovery
- Children actively participating in purposeful activities
- Teachers guiding conversations and extending learning naturally
- Health & Safety
Why it matters: A secure, predictable environment helps families feel comfortable and confident each day.
Questions to Ask
- How is building access monitored?
- What is the procedure for visitor check-in?
- How does the program manage allergies and dietary needs?
- What is the illness policy?
- Who is CPR and first aid certified?
- How often are emergency drills practiced?
What to Observe
Clean, well-organized classrooms
A smooth, reassuring check-in routine
Staff who appear attentive, calm, and prepared
- Environment: Indoors & Outdoors
Why it matters: Children learn through the environments they explore, from cozy reading areas to outdoor play spaces.
Questions to Ask
- Are materials accessible for independent exploration?
- How often do children spend time outdoors?
- Is the playground shaded and age-appropriate?
- Do classroom layouts support creativity, movement, and independence?
What to Observe
- Defined indoor learning areas with varied materials
- Comfortable spaces for quiet or calming moments
- Outdoor areas designed for exploration, movement, and imaginative play
- Staffing & Educators
Why it matters: Teachers shape your child’s day with their training, warmth, and approach to learning.
Questions to Ask
- What is the child-to-teacher ratio?
- What training do educators complete before entering the classroom?
- Is ongoing professional development encouraged?
- How does the center maintain staffing consistency?
What to Observe
- Teachers engaging at children’s eye level
- Respectful, patient communication
- A calm, balanced classroom atmosphere
- Interactions With Children
Why it matters: Positive relationships help children feel secure, confident, and ready to learn.
Questions to Ask
- How do teachers build connections with children?
- How is independence supported throughout the day?
- How are conflicts handled in a supportive way?
What strategies help children build emotional regulation skills?
What to Observe
- Children approaching teachers comfortably
- Encouraging language woven throughout routines
- Gentle, thoughtful guidance during challenging moments
- Family & Community Partnership
Why it matters: Strong communication helps families feel connected and involved.
Questions to Ask
- How are daily updates shared with parents?
- Are parent-teacher conferences offered?
- How is developmental information communicated?
- What does the enrollment process involve?
- How are families encouraged to participate in school life?
What to Observe
- Clear communication tools or displays
- Warm, attentive interactions between staff and families
- Values & Philosophy
Why it matters: A center’s values shape classroom culture, expectations, and the tone of each day.
Questions to Ask
- What philosophy guides the school’s early learning approach?
- How is inclusion reflected in materials and routines?
- How does the program balance structure with child-led exploration?
- What values guide daily teacher-child interactions?
What to Observe
- Inclusive books, toys, and classroom materials
- Calm areas for emotional regulation
- Teachers modeling respect, empathy, and patience
- Cost & Program Benefits
Why it matters: Transparent information helps families compare programs confidently and understand overall value.
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 available?
- What sets this program apart from others in Wilmington, DE?
What to Observe
- A clear explanation of costs and inclusions
- A level of care that aligns with the investment
How to Use This Day Care Checklist During a Tour
- Bring it with you—printed or saved on your phone
Ask the questions that matter most to you - Take quick notes after each visit
- Observe how your child responds to the space and the people
The right program should feel welcoming, supportive, and aligned with your family’s values.
A Final Word of Encouragement
Choosing day care is a significant moment for your family, but having a clear checklist makes the journey much easier. As you explore programs throughout Pike Creek and Wilmington, use this guide to compare classrooms, approaches, and environments with confidence.
Whenever you’re ready, Celebree School of Pike Creek would be happy to walk through your checklist with you during a tour.
