Families searching for day care often want the same reassuring mix: a nurturing environment, thoughtful routines, and a place where their child feels known and supported. With several programs to compare throughout the surrounding community, the process can seem daunting. When you know what to look for, that transforms your approach from overwhelmed to confident.
This day care checklist in McLean, VA, was designed to help you do just that. Bring it with you during your tours so you can ask meaningful questions, observe what matters, and get a true feel for each program’s philosophy, safety practices, and classroom culture.
- Educational Approach
Why it matters: A strong foundation in early learning helps children grow with confidence, curiosity, and independence.
Questions to Ask
- What curriculum guides daily learning?
- How do teachers plan lessons across different developmental stages?
- How is progress documented and communicated with families?
- What programs are offered from infancy through preschool?
- How does play support early literacy, math, and social-emotional growth?
What to Observe
- Learning spaces arranged to spark exploration
- Children engaged and genuinely enjoying their activities
- Teachers engaging children in conversations that support learning
- Health & Safety
Why it matters: A secure, well-organized environment offers peace of mind for parents and comfort for children.
Questions to Ask
- How is access to the building controlled?
- What is the visitor check-in process?
- How are allergies and dietary needs managed?
- What is the illness and exclusion policy?
- Who holds CPR and first aid certification?
- How are emergency procedures practiced?
What to Observe
- Clean, orderly classrooms and hallways
- A smooth, predictable check-in routine
- Staff who appear confident, focused, and attentive
- Environment: Indoors & Outdoors
Why it matters: Children learn through the environments they explore, whether it’s a cozy reading corner or a lively outdoor space.
Questions to Ask
- Are materials accessible for children to use independently?
- How often do children go outdoors?
- Is the playground shaded and age-appropriate?
- Do classroom layouts support independence, creativity, and engagement?
What to Observe
- Defined learning areas that encourage hands-on exploration
- Comfortable spaces for calming or reading
- Outdoor spaces that promote movement, curiosity, and discovery
- Staffing & Educators
Why it matters: The adults in the classroom shape each child’s experience, from emotional safety to learning opportunities.
Questions to Ask
- What are the child-to-teacher ratios?
- What training do educators complete before leading a classroom?
- Is ongoing professional development supported?
- How does the center maintain staffing consistency?
What to Observe
- Teachers interacting warmly at children’s eye level
- Respectful, patient communication
- Classrooms that feel calm, supported, and well balanced
- Interactions With Children
Why it matters: Positive, meaningful relationships help children feel secure and ready to explore.
Questions to Ask
- How do teachers build trust with children?
- How is independence encouraged each day?
- How are peer conflicts handled?
- What strategies support social-emotional development?
What to Observe
- Children approaching teachers comfortably
- Encouraging language woven into daily routines
- Thoughtful guidance during challenging moments
- Family & Community Partnership
Why it matters: Strong communication supports smoother routines and a deeper sense of connection for families.
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 include?
- How are families invited to be part of classroom life?
What to Observe
- Clear communication tools or displays
- Staff who welcome questions and engage with families
- Values & Philosophy
Why it matters: A center’s values shape the tone of each day, from learning expectations to teacher-child interactions.
Questions to Ask
- What philosophy guides the early learning approach?
- How is inclusion represented in materials and routines?
- How does the center balance structure with child-led exploration?
- What values guide the classroom culture?
What to Observe
- Diverse, inclusive materials
- Calm, comforting spaces for emotional support
- Teachers modeling empathy, patience, and respect
- Cost & Program Benefits
Why it matters: Transparent information helps families compare programs clearly and confidently.
Questions to Ask
- What is the tuition for each program?
- What does tuition include?
- Are meals, supplies, or enrichment programs included?
- Are there any additional fees?
- Are sibling discounts available?
- What makes this program unique in McLean, VA?
What to Observe
- Clear communication about costs and expectations
- A level of quality 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 your family
- Take brief notes after each visit
- Notice how your child responds to the people and the space
The right day care should feel welcoming from the moment you step inside.
A Final Word of Encouragement
Choosing day care is a meaningful step for your family, and having a clear checklist makes it easier to evaluate each option with confidence. As you explore programs around McLean, VA, use this guide to compare environments and find a place where your child can feel safe, encouraged, and ready to grow.
When you’re ready, Celebree School of Tysons-Jones Branch would be thrilled to walk through your checklist with you during a tour.
