The top questions to ask when meeting a home daycare provider + a free checklist
Choosing childcare is a big decision that often comes with a mix of emotions. It’s important to feel prepared with questions to ask when meeting a home daycare provider for the first time! You’re looking for someone you trust, someone who understands your needs, and someone your child feels comfortable with.
Home daycare providers can be an incredible option for families. They offer smaller group settings, more flexibility, and a level of care that feels personal and consistent.
Going into an in-person interview or home visit with the right questions can help you feel more confident, set clear expectations, and make it easier to recognize when someone feels like the right fit!
Here are some top questions to ask when meeting a home daycare provider for the first time. *Bonus: download our free checklist at the bottom!
1. What does a typical day look like?
This question gives you insight into your child’s daily experience and helps you understand how the provider structures their care.
Ask about:
- Meals and snacks
- Nap schedules
- Outdoor play
- Activities like crafts, reading, or circle time
On Her Yes Club, many providers share this information in the “Details” section of their profile. You can often get a sense of what is included in their routine before you even meet. Use this as a starting point and ask them to walk you through a typical day in more detail.
2. How do you handle discipline and conflict?
Every daycare provider approaches this differently, so it’s important to align on values.
You might ask:
- How do you respond to tantrums?
- How do you encourage positive behaviour?
Many experienced home daycare providers help children learn emotional regulation, not just follow rules.
3. What is your experience and background?
More than just formal credentials, this is about real-life expertise and a genuine commitment to child development.
Ask about:
- Years of experience
- Training such as CPR and first aid
- Whether they are a registered Early Childhood Educator (ECE)
- Why they chose to open their home daycare business
Many home daycare providers are ECE registered and have built established daycare businesses over many years. Others bring extensive hands-on experience from caring for children in a variety of settings. What they share is a deep sense of responsibility and care for the families they support.
On Her Yes Club, providers who list availability are required to confirm that they have a valid Vulnerable Sector Check and current CPR and First Aid certification. While this is self-reported and cannot be guaranteed, it does indicate that the provider has acknowledged these important safety requirements.
These details, along with ECE experience, are often listed under the “Credentials” section of a provider’s profile. This can give you a helpful starting point, but you should always ask to see these documents in person and build on what you learn from their profile during your conversation.
4. How do you communicate with parents?
Strong communication builds trust and helps you feel connected to your child’s day.
Clarify:
- Will you receive daily updates?
- How are milestones or concerns shared?
On Her Yes Club, parents and providers can communicate directly through a private chat and share photos! This makes it easier to stay connected, ask quick questions, and feel more involved throughout the day.
The best providers act as childcare partners, keeping you informed and engaged in your child’s development.
5. What are your policies and contract terms?
Home daycare providers are small business owners, and most operate with their own contracts and policies that outline expectations for both sides.
These typically cover:
- Illness policies
- Vacation and holiday schedules
- Payment terms and notice periods
- Hours of operation and late pickup policies
It’s important to ask to review these policies ahead of time so you fully understand how the daycare operates and can ensure you are aligned.
Clear expectations upfront help avoid confusion later and create a more respectful, professional relationship.
6. Do you take the children out for walks or trips?
This question helps you understand how your child will experience the world beyond the home.
Ask about:
- Walks in the neighbourhood
- Trips to the park or playground
- Visits to local libraries or community spaces
- You can also ask if they meet up with other daycare providers at these spaces
Regular outings can support social development, physical activity, and curiosity. They also give children a chance to explore and engage with their broader environment.
On Her Yes Club, you may get a sense of this through the “Details” section or photos shared on a provider’s profile. Be sure to ask how often outings happen and what safety measures are in place when children are off-site.
7. How does nap time work?
Typically, there is a dedicated space for nap time, but every daycare is different. It’s important to know where the space or room is, what the nap time routine is, and what items your child will need to bring that will stay at daycare, such as a blanket, pillow, or comfort item.
8. Do you plan on being open long-term in case my family grows?
If you’re planning on growing your family, this is an important question to ask as many daycare providers give priority to siblings of children already in their care! It’s important to know future availability in the event you need the daycare spot.
9. Can you share references or testimonials?
Hearing from other parents can be incredibly reassuring.
On Her Yes Club, some providers have reviews directly on their profiles. While not every provider has reviews yet, this feature can offer helpful insight into other families’ experiences.
You can also ask for references if you would like to speak with someone directly.
Long-term relationships and positive word of mouth are often strong indicators of a trusted, high-quality provider.
Before You Meet: What to Look for on Their Profile
A great in-person meeting often starts with a strong online profile.
On Her Yes Club, you can:
- View daycare photos to get a sense of the space ahead of time
- Check the “Details” section to understand daily routines and offerings
- Review “Credentials” for experience and certifications
- Read reviews when available
On Her Yes Club, there is also a filter for floor access preferences, such as main floor, full home, or basement! So you can narrow your search based on what matters most to your family.
If a provider’s profile is missing photos or key details, it is completely okay to ask to see the space or request more information before meeting in person.
The Bottom Line
The right home daycare provider will feel like a natural extension of your family’s routine.
You’ll notice it in the way they speak about the children in their care, how they answer your questions, and how comfortable you feel in their space. Over time, they become someone who understands your child’s personality, supports their growth, and shares in the day-to-day moments that matter.
For many families, that relationship becomes one of the most valuable forms of support in their family’s network.
