# Questions to ask when you visit a child care centre

A practical checklist for comparing child care centres in British Columbia.

Updated 2026-11-02. Also on the [web page](https://daycaremap.fyi/guides/visiting-a-child-care-centre).

Use this checklist when you contact or visit a centre. The directory helps you find options. Each provider can confirm its current services, availability, and policies.

## Ask about your child's age and schedule

- Does the centre accept your child's age group?
- Which days and hours are available?
- Does the centre have space now?
- How does the waitlist work, and when should you check again?
- What happens when the centre is closed or your child is ill?

## Ask about the daily routine

- What does a typical day look like?
- How much time do children spend outside?
- Are meals or snacks provided? What should families bring?
- How does the centre support naps, transitions, and individual needs?
- How does the team share updates with families?

## Ask about care and safety

- What is the staff-to-child ratio for your child's age group?
- Who will care for your child each day?
- How does the centre handle allergies, medication, and emergencies?
- How can you review the centre's current licence and inspection information?
- What is the process for raising a concern?

## Compare details before you decide

Ask every centre the same questions. Write down the answers and the date. Confirm fees, hours, availability, and policies directly with each provider. This directory does not endorse a centre or replace a visit and your own checks.

## About the source

The listings use a snapshot of the Government of British Columbia Child Care Map dataset. The provincial map may not include every licensed facility. This directory snapshot does not update automatically. It lists only the Licensed Group service type of that dataset.

## Sources

- [Government of British Columbia Child Care Map Data](https://catalogue.data.gov.bc.ca/dataset/child-care-map-data)

## Questions

### Does a listing confirm that a centre has space?

No. Available space can change. Contact the centre to ask about current openings and wait times.

### Does a listing confirm a centre's current licence status?

The source is a child care map dataset. Contact the centre and the local health authority to confirm current licensing details.