10 Factors To Consider When Choosing a Childcare Centre

Posted on April 19, 2025 by Graham Cattley

As a parent, choosing a childcare centre is one of the most important decisions. These environments significantly influence your child’s development, happiness and social skills. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve listed some factors to consider and questions to ask when looking for a suitable centre. 

1: Accreditation and Licensing

One of the most important factors to consider is accreditation and licensing. Childcare centres must receive accreditations from various legal bodies. These licences certify that a centre is safe, compliant, and qualified to care for children.  

Before you move forward with a centre, confirm that it is licensed and adheres to state regulations and standards. To help you verify their credentials, here are some questions to ask:

  • Do the relevant authorities license your centre?
  • What qualifications do your educators hold?
  • Are you accredited under the National Quality Framework (NQF)?

2: Staff-to-Child Ratio

The staff-to-child ratio significantly impacts the quality of care your child will receive. Ensure educators are qualified, experienced, and passionate about working with children. Here are some questions to consider: 

  • What is your staff-to-child ratio for different age groups?
  • What qualifications and training do your educators have?
  • How do you ensure continuity of care for the children?

3: Learning Programs and Activities

An excellent childcare centre balances structured learning and play-based activities. Look for programs that foster social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. To get a clearer idea of a centre’s learning structure, here’s what to ask: 

  • What does a typical day look like at your centre?
  • How do you tailor activities to suit each child’s development needs?
  • Do you follow a specific early learning framework?

4: Safety and Security

Your child’s safety is non-negotiable. Assess the centre’s safety measures, cleanliness, and emergency protocols. Ask the centre in-depth about their safety and security: 

  • What safety measures are in place to protect children?
  • How do you handle emergencies or medical incidents?
  • Are there secure entry and exit systems?

5: Nutrition and Meal Plans

For centres providing meals, inquire about the nutritional quality and any accommodations for dietary restrictions or allergies. Some questions to consider: 

  • Do you provide meals and snacks?
  • Are the meals nutritionally balanced and prepared on-site?
  • How do you handle food allergies or special dietary needs?

6: Communication Channels

Ongoing communication is essential for understanding your child’s progress and daily activities. Inquire about various communication methods and policies: 

  • How do you keep parents informed about their child’s day?
  • Are there opportunities for parent-teacher meetings?
  • Can parents visit or observe the centre during operating hours?

7: Outdoor and Indoor Facilities

A stimulating environment with safe, age-appropriate equipment is key to your child’s development and happiness. To ensure your child has an enjoyable and safe play experience,  here are some questions you can ask: 

  • What indoor and outdoor facilities do you offer?
  • Are the play areas clean, safe, and well-maintained?
  • How much outdoor playtime do children get each day?

8: Reviews and Recommendations

Hearing from other parents can provide valuable insight into a centre’s reputation and quality of care. Consider the following questions to get a better idea of centres’ reputation and quality:

  • Can you provide references from other parents?
  • Are there online reviews or testimonials for your centre?
  • What do you do to address feedback or complaints?

9: Flexibility and Availability

Your childcare centre should meet your schedule and accommodate your family’s needs. Questions to ask:

  • What are your operating hours?
  • Do you offer part-time or flexible care options?
  • What is your policy for late pickups or absences?

10: Overall Atmosphere

Trust your instincts when visiting the centre. The environment should feel welcoming, inclusive, and supportive. Take time to assess the centre and ask yourself the following questions: 

  • Do the children and staff appear happy and engaged?
  • Is the space clean, organised, and inviting?
  • Do I feel comfortable leaving my child here?

Why Choose Empowered Learning Academy  

Empowered ELA is more than a childcare centre — we’re a home. We know the importance of a comfortable and nurturing space for children to learn, play, and feel safe. Our qualified educators are passionate about childcare and ensure an innovative, enriching, and supportive environment where your child can interact, grow and prepare for the future. 

Ready to take the first step? Book a tour of one of our centres.