Choosing the right child care provider is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent/guardian. One of the first steps is deciding if you’re looking for unlicensed or licensed child care.
Here’s how they differ: Unlicensed child care operates with different rules and inspection requirements than licensed care, and providers can care for only a limited number of children. Unlicensed child care options, still offers many families a flexible, accessible option that may be a great fit for their needs. For additional information, visit Understanding Licensed vs. Unlicensed Options.
Part 1: Questions to ask during the initial interview
Conducting an initial interview can save time and help you ask the questions that matter most to your family. Use the suggestions below as a starting point, add your own questions based on your needs, and choose a provider whose answers align with your values and expectations. Do you have any certifications or training, such as Early Childhood Education, First Aid or CPR?
- Have you cared for children in any capacity, either formally or informally? Please describe.
- Do you have a current vulnerable sector check (criminal record check)?
- Could you provide references from families whose children you’ve cared for?
- Have you cared for a child who requires accommodations, such as sign language, visual support, or has physical challenges? My child needs [insert your child’s accommodation requirement], so I'd like to know more about your experience.
- Do you have any pets? If so, what kind of pets? Do they interact with the children in your care?
- Will anyone else be in your home during child care hours? If so, what’s their relationship to you, and will they interact with my child?
- How do you ensure the safety and cleanliness of your home/child care space? How do you store hazardous materials?
- Is your home smoke free?
- What do you do if a child becomes ill during care?
- How do you communicate with parents/guardians about their child(ren)’s activities, behaviour, or if there are incidents?
- What type of insurance do you hold?
- What are your fees? Do you provide a written contract outlining payment terms and care details? Are there any additional costs, such as for late pick up? Do you provide tax receipts? Do you hold a deposit? If so, what are the terms on how to use this deposit.
- Do you have set holidays or closure dates? Are these paid or unpaid?
Part 2: Questions to ask when visiting an unlicensed child care site
If you’re satisfied with the initial interview, consider following up with a site visit. It’s an opportunity to ask additional questions and see the environment firsthand to determine whether it feels child‑friendly, comfortable, and safe.
- Do you have a parent handbook (a document created by the care provider that outlines general expectations and policies)?
- Can I have a tour of the whole house or site?
- How many children are in your care? What are their ages?
- What kind of experience do you have with [insert your child’s age] age group.
- What safety protocols do you follow, such as fire drills or emergency evacuation plans?
- How will you adapt these protocols to support my child (e.g., consider age, need)?
- Do you have a detailed emergency plan?
- Do you have a first aid kit and fire extinguisher?
- How do you manage challenging behaviours or emotional difficulties?
- How do you communicate with parents/guardians about their child’s progress and development, or if the care arrangement is not working?
- Are you open to feedback and regular check-ins?
- Do you have a photo/social media/video policy?
- Do you transport children at any time? If so, are appropriate car seats provided, or would I need to supply one?
- Describe a child’s typical day in your program.
- What is your policy on screen time?
- Do you provide meals and/or snacks?
- If so, what are some typical meals and snacks?
- How will you accommodate my child’s allergies or special dietary needs? [Insert your child’s dietary requirements]
Once you’ve asked your questions and visited the child care site, take time to review the answers and your notes before making a decision. And trust your instincts - they’re an important part of the process.
Updated May, 2026.If you see information that’s incorrect, please contact childcare@cfmws.com.
