Top 10 Questions to Ask When Visiting a Childcare Centre in Melbourne

 


Choosing a childcare centre in Melbourne involves more than just picking the closest one or the most affordable option. Parents want to feel confident that their children are in safe hands, gaining strong social skills, and growing in a space that encourages learning and play.

Before enrolling your child, schedule a visit and come prepared. Asking the right questions helps you see what goes on beyond the colourful walls and cheerful toys.

Here are the top 10 questions every parent should ask when visiting a childcare centre in Melbourne.

Key Takeaways

  • Always visit in person and come prepared with specific questions.

  • Ask about staff qualifications, ratios, and safety measures.

  • Review the daily routine and learning activities offered.

  • Check how they handle communication, nutrition, and health policies.

  • Understand the fee structure and what’s included. 

1. What Are Your Staff Qualifications and Experience?

Start by asking about the educators' qualifications. The staff should meet the requirements set by the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA). Qualified educators know how to respond to children’s needs, guide behaviour, and build a positive learning environment.

Ask:

  • Are all staff members certified in early childhood education?

  • How long have your educators been working in childcare?

  • Do staff members hold current first aid and CPR certificates?

A strong team with experience can make a major difference in your child’s daily routine.

2. What Is Your Staff-to-Child Ratio?

This question helps you gauge how much attention your child will receive. The National Quality Standard (NQS) sets ratios based on age groups. Centres must follow these guidelines, but it’s worth confirming during your visit.

Low ratios allow educators to give children more individual attention. This plays a key role in a child’s safety, learning progress, and emotional well-being.

3. How Do You Handle Child Safety and Security?

Child safety should be a top priority. Ask the centre how they control who enters and leaves the premises. Find out if doors stay locked during the day, how pick-ups and drop-offs are handled, and whether the outdoor play areas are secure.

Also ask:

  • How do you manage illnesses or injuries?

  • What’s your policy on supervising children at all times?

  • Do staff conduct regular safety drills?

A centre that takes safety seriously will have clear answers to all of these.

4. What Is the Daily Routine?

A structured routine helps children feel secure and learn time management skills. Ask to see a sample schedule. Look for a healthy mix of indoor and outdoor play, rest time, meals, group activities, and individual learning.

Good routines encourage development in areas like language, physical coordination, and social interaction. Watch how the educators guide children through their day—this can tell you a lot about the centre’s overall approach.

5. How Do You Handle Behaviour Guidance?

Behaviour guidance varies between centres, so ask how staff respond to challenging situations. You want to know whether they use positive reinforcement, redirection, or time-out strategies.

Ask:

  • What happens if a child bites or hits?

  • How do you encourage cooperation and sharing?

  • Are parents informed when there are behaviour issues?

Look for a centre that promotes emotional development and helps children learn how to manage their feelings and actions.

6. What Is Your Approach to Learning and Play?

A quality childcare centre doesn't just “watch” children—it engages them. Ask how the centre balances play with intentional learning activities. Early childhood education should support creativity, problem-solving, and curiosity.

Ask:

  • Do you follow a specific learning framework (e.g. EYLF)?

  • How often do children participate in group learning?

  • Do you adapt learning for different ages and abilities?

Learning through play is critical, but the structure around it should be clear and purposeful.

Related Blog:- How Parents in Orlando Choose Daycare Services That Fit Their Needs

7. How Do You Communicate with Parents?

Ongoing communication helps build trust between families and educators. Ask how the centre keeps parents updated. Do they use an app? Send emails or newsletters? Offer regular face-to-face meetings?

Also check:

  • Will I receive photos or reports about my child’s day?

  • How do you notify parents about accidents or illness?

  • Are there parent-teacher conferences or events?

Good communication helps you stay involved in your child’s early development.

8. What Meals and Snacks Do You Provide?

Nutrition affects your child’s growth and energy levels. Ask about the menu and how meals are prepared. Some centres cook meals on-site, while others bring food in from external providers.

Ask:

  • Are meals aligned with dietary guidelines for children?

  • Can you cater for allergies or special dietary needs?

  • Do children eat together in a social setting?

Eating well at childcare encourages good habits and can also make mealtimes less stressful at home.

9. What Are the Fees and What’s Included?

Childcare fees can vary greatly in Melbourne. Make sure you get a clear breakdown of costs. Ask if fees cover meals, nappies, excursions, or special programs like music or language classes.

Also check:

  • Are there late pick-up fees?

  • What happens if my child is sick or away?

  • How often do fees increase?

Make sure the centre fits your budget and that there are no surprises later on.

10. What Is Your Policy on Sick Children?

Illness spreads quickly among young children. Ask what the centre does to minimise this. Do they require a child to stay home with a fever? How do they notify parents of outbreaks like colds, gastro, or hand-foot-and-mouth?

Find out:

  • How are sick children cared for while waiting to be picked up?

  • What cleaning routines are in place?

  • Are immunisation records required?

A centre with strong health policies protects your child and others.

Choosing the right childcare centre is a big decision. At GenCare Kids, we’re here to support your family every step of the way—providing expert care, a nurturing environment, and a commitment to your child’s development and well-being.


Location: United States

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