Infant Daycare Checklist: Everything to Look For and Questions to Ask

Choosing daycare for your baby is one of the most emotionally challenging decisions parents face. Infants have unique needs for safety, nurturing, and responsive care. This comprehensive checklist covers everything to evaluate when choosing infant daycare.

Pre-Visit Research Checklist

Before You Tour

| Task | Status | |------|--------| | ☐ Verify current license with state | | | ☐ Check for complaints/violations | | | ☐ Confirm they accept your baby's age | | | ☐ Ask about waitlist and availability | | | ☐ Request tuition information | | | ☐ Ask about infant room ratios | | | ☐ Confirm hours match your needs | |

Information to Gather

| Question | Their Answer | |----------|--------------| | Infant capacity? | | | Current openings? | | | Weekly tuition? | | | Registration fee? | | | Staff-to-infant ratio? | | | Minimum age accepted? | |

Safety Checklist

Sleep Safety (Critical)

| Requirement | Check | |-------------|-------| | ☐ Firm, flat sleep surface | | | ☐ Tight-fitting sheet only | | | ☐ No blankets, pillows, bumpers | | | ☐ No toys in crib | | | ☐ Babies placed on back | | | ☐ Individual cribs (not shared) | | | ☐ Sleep space separate from play area | | | ☐ Written safe sleep policy | | | ☐ Staff trained on SIDS prevention | |

Why it matters: Safe sleep practices prevent SIDS. This is non-negotiable.

Supervision and Safety

| Requirement | Check | |-------------|-------| | ☐ Adults visible supervision of all infants | | | ☐ No gaps in supervision (transitions, diaper changes) | | | ☐ Proper ratio maintained at all times | | | ☐ Adult within arm's reach of infants | | | ☐ Clear sightlines throughout room | | | ☐ Emergency procedures posted | | | ☐ First aid kit accessible | | | ☐ CPR-certified staff | |

Physical Safety

| Requirement | Check | |-------------|-------| | ☐ Outlet covers | | | ☐ Secure furniture (won't tip) | | | ☐ No small objects/choking hazards | | | ☐ Gates at stairs/doors | | | ☐ Window cord safety | | | ☐ Safe outdoor area | | | ☐ Clean, sanitized surfaces | | | ☐ Non-toxic toys | | | ☐ No hanging cords or strings | |

Health and Hygiene

| Requirement | Check | |-------------|-------| | ☐ Frequent handwashing (before/after diaper, feeding) | | | ☐ Individual diaper supplies per baby | | | ☐ Sanitized changing area after each use | | | ☐ Sick child policy enforced | | | ☐ Medication administration policy | | | ☐ Clean floors (infants on floor often) | | | ☐ Toy sanitization routine | | | ☐ Formula/breast milk handling procedures | |

Staffing Checklist

Ratios and Qualifications

| Requirement | Check | |-------------|-------| | ☐ Ratio of 1:3 or 1:4 (no more than 1:4) | | | ☐ Small group size (8-12 infants max) | | | ☐ Primary caregiver model | | | ☐ Staff have infant-specific training | | | ☐ CPR/First Aid certified | | | ☐ Background checks completed | | | ☐ Low turnover (ask about tenure) | | | ☐ Adequate substitutes for breaks | |

Caregiver Qualities

| What to Observe | Notes | |-----------------|-------| | ☐ Warm, nurturing interactions | | | ☐ Responds promptly to cries | | | ☐ Makes eye contact with babies | | | ☐ Talks to infants during care | | | ☐ Gentle handling | | | ☐ Gets down to baby's level | | | ☐ Not rushed or stressed | | | ☐ Genuine enjoyment of infants | |

Questions About Staff

| Question | Their Answer | |----------|--------------| | How long have infant caregivers been here? | | | What infant-specific training do they have? | | | Is there a primary caregiver model? | | | Who covers during breaks/absences? | | | What's your turnover rate? | |

Feeding Checklist

Breastfeeding Support

| Requirement | Check | |-------------|-------| | ☐ Breast milk accepted and properly stored | | | ☐ Labeled bottles in refrigerator | | | ☐ Space for mothers to nurse (if visiting) | | | ☐ Warm bottles in warm water (not microwave) | | | ☐ Track ounces given | | | ☐ Don't waste breast milk | | | ☐ Respectful of breastfeeding goals | |

Bottle/Formula Feeding

| Requirement | Check | |-------------|-------| | ☐ Proper formula preparation | | | ☐ Bottles not propped | | | ☐ Baby held during feeding | | | ☐ Fed on demand or per parent schedule | | | ☐ Burping during/after feeds | | | ☐ Individual feeding items | | | ☐ Communication about intake | |

Introduction to Solids

| Requirement | Check | |-------------|-------| | ☐ Work with parents on timing | | | ☐ Introduce foods per parent guidance | | | ☐ Watch for allergies/reactions | | | ☐ Safe feeding practices | | | ☐ High chair safety | | | ☐ Document foods introduced | |

Diapering Checklist

Diaper Changing

| Requirement | Check | |-------------|-------| | ☐ Changing table with raised edges | | | ☐ Hand on baby at all times | | | ☐ Surface sanitized after each change | | | ☐ Gloves used | | | ☐ Hands washed before and after | | | ☐ Diaper changes tracked | | | ☐ Diaper rash addressed and communicated | | | ☐ Individual supplies per child | |

Potty Training Transition

| Requirement | Check | |-------------|-------| | ☐ Work with parents on timing | | | ☐ Consistent with home approach | | | ☐ Don't push before ready | | | ☐ Communicate progress | |

Environment Checklist

Room Setup

| Requirement | Check | |-------------|-------| | ☐ Dedicated infant room (not mixed ages) | | | ☐ Calm, nurturing atmosphere | | | ☐ Natural light | | | ☐ Separate sleep and play areas | | | ☐ Tummy time space | | | ☐ Age-appropriate toys | | | ☐ Soft flooring/mats | | | ☐ Not overcrowded | | | ☐ Temperature controlled | | | ☐ Clean smell (not harsh chemicals) | |

Outdoor Access

| Requirement | Check | |-------------|-------| | ☐ Safe outdoor area for infants | | | ☐ Shaded space | | | ☐ Age-appropriate outdoor equipment | | | ☐ Daily outdoor time (weather permitting) | | | ☐ Protected from older children | |

Developmentally Appropriate

| Requirement | Check | |-------------|-------| | ☐ Mirrors at baby level | | | ☐ Black/white and high-contrast items (young infants) | | | ☐ Sensory toys | | | ☐ Soft books | | | ☐ Music and singing | | | ☐ Tummy time encouraged | | | ☐ Freedom to explore safely | |

Daily Care Checklist

Routines

| Requirement | Check | |-------------|-------| | ☐ Flexible schedule based on baby's needs | | | ☐ Naps on demand (not rigid schedule) | | | ☐ Feeding on demand or per parent | | | ☐ Diaper checks every 2 hours minimum | | | ☐ Daily outdoor time | | | ☐ Individual attention throughout day | | | ☐ Comfort when upset | |

Developmental Support

| Requirement | Check | |-------------|-------| | ☐ Tummy time | | | ☐ Face-to-face interaction | | | ☐ Talking, singing, reading | | | ☐ Sensory exploration | | | ☐ Motor skill encouragement | | | ☐ Social interaction with caregivers | | | ☐ Tracking milestones | |

Communication Checklist

Daily Communication

| Requirement | Check | |-------------|-------| | ☐ Daily report (feeding, diapers, sleep, activities) | | | ☐ Photos/updates during day | | | ☐ Communication app or paper log | | | ☐ Drop-off/pickup conversations | | | ☐ Responsive to parent questions | | | ☐ Milestone communication | |

Ongoing Communication

| Requirement | Check | |-------------|-------| | ☐ Open door policy for parent visits | | | ☐ Parent conferences | | | ☐ Concerns addressed promptly | | | ☐ Partnership approach | | | ☐ Respect for parenting choices | |

Policy Checklist

Essential Policies

| Policy | Notes | |--------|-------| | ☐ Sick child policy | | | ☐ Safe sleep policy | | | ☐ Discipline policy (appropriate for infants) | | | ☐ Emergency procedures | | | ☐ Medication administration | | | ☐ Sunscreen policy | | | ☐ Pick-up authorization | | | ☐ Late pick-up policy | |

What to Request in Writing

| Document | Status | |----------|--------| | ☐ Parent handbook | | | ☐ Fee schedule | | | ☐ Sick policy | | | ☐ Safe sleep policy | | | ☐ Daily schedule | | | ☐ Sample menu (if applicable) | | | ☐ Contract/enrollment agreement | |

Red Flags Checklist

Immediate Concerns

| Red Flag | Observed? | |----------|-----------| | ☐ Babies left crying without response | | | ☐ Bottles propped | | | ☐ Unsafe sleep practices | | | ☐ Inadequate supervision | | | ☐ High ratio (more than 1:4) | | | ☐ Dirty or unsafe environment | | | ☐ Staff seem stressed/overwhelmed | | | ☐ Reluctance to let you observe | |

Concerning Signs

| Red Flag | Observed? | |----------|-----------| | ☐ High staff turnover | | | ☐ Rigid schedules ignoring baby's needs | | | ☐ No primary caregiver model | | | ☐ Defensive about questions | | | ☐ No written policies | | | ☐ Poor communication | | | ☐ Unresponsive to parent concerns | | | ☐ Chaotic atmosphere | |

Questions to Ask

About Care Practices

| Question | Their Answer | |----------|--------------| | How do you comfort a crying baby? | | | How long might a baby cry before being tended to? | | | How do you handle sleep? Will you follow our schedule? | | | How is feeding handled? Can we breastfeed? | | | What does a typical day look like for an infant? | | | How do you support developmental milestones? | |

About Safety

| Question | Their Answer | |----------|--------------| | What are your safe sleep practices? | | | How are ratios maintained during breaks? | | | What happens if a caregiver calls in sick? | | | What's your illness policy? | | | How do you handle medical emergencies? | | | Are all staff CPR certified? | |

About Transition

| Question | Their Answer | |----------|--------------| | How do you handle the transition period? | | | Can I stay the first day? First week? | | | How will you help my baby adjust? | | | How will you communicate during the transition? | |

Comparison Worksheet

Use this to compare programs you visit:

| Factor | Program 1 | Program 2 | Program 3 | |--------|-----------|-----------|-----------| | Ratio | | | | | Cost | | | | | Location | | | | | Hours | | | | | Waitlist | | | | | Overall impression | | | | | Staff warmth | | | | | Environment | | | | | Safety practices | | | | | Communication | | | | | Gut feeling | | | |

What to Bring/Note During Visit

Bring With You

• ☐ This checklist (printed)
• ☐ Notebook for notes
• ☐ List of your specific questions
• ☐ Phone (to note details)
• ☐ Your baby (if possible—see how they respond)

Observe During Visit

• ☐ How current babies seem (content, cared for?)
• ☐ How staff interact with babies
• ☐ Cleanliness and organization
• ☐ Noise level and atmosphere
• ☐ How your questions are received
• ☐ Your gut reaction

After the Visit

Follow-Up Tasks

| Task | Status | |------|--------| | ☐ Write down impressions immediately | | | ☐ Discuss with partner | | | ☐ Call references | | | ☐ Verify license again | | | ☐ Ask follow-up questions | | | ☐ Make decision | | | ☐ Get on waitlist if needed | |

Reference Questions

| Question to Ask Other Parents | |------------------------------| | How long has your child been there? | | What do you like most about the infant room? | | Any concerns? | | How is communication? | | Would you recommend it? | | How was the transition for your baby? |

Frequently Asked Questions

What ratio should I accept for infants?

Ideally 1:3 (one caregiver per three infants). 1:4 is the maximum recommended by NAEYC. States may allow higher ratios (1:5 or 1:6), but quality programs maintain lower ratios.

How do I know if caregivers will be responsive?

Observe during your visit. Are babies currently being attended to promptly when they fuss? Do caregivers seem present and engaged? Ask directly how long a baby might cry before being picked up.

Is it okay if the infant room seems quiet?

Some quiet is normal during naps. At active times, you should see engaged caregivers interacting with babies, talking, singing. A silent room with awake babies may indicate lack of engagement.

What if my baby won't nap in a crib?

Discuss this with the program. Babies can only safely sleep in cribs at daycare (not swings, bouncers, car seats). They will adjust to crib sleeping with consistency, but it may take time.

Should I trust my gut even if everything checks out?

Yes. Your instincts about your baby's care matter. If something feels off despite checking all boxes, keep looking. You need to feel confident in your choice.

How many programs should I visit?

Visit at least 3-5 programs to compare. You'll quickly learn what you value most and what feels right.

When should I start looking for infant care?

As early as possible—ideally during pregnancy. Infant spots are the hardest to find and often have the longest waitlists.

The Bottom Line

Choosing infant daycare requires thorough evaluation of safety practices, caregiver quality, and program policies. Use this checklist systematically, but also trust your instincts about the warmth and responsiveness you observe.

Must-haves (non-negotiable):

• Safe sleep practices (back to sleep, empty crib)
• Low ratios (no more than 1:4)
• Responsive, nurturing caregivers
• Clean, safe environment
• Good communication with parents

Your baby deserves caregivers who will provide the same responsive, loving care you give at home. Don't settle until you find it.