Choosing the right daycare is one of the most important decisions a parent will make. Beyond convenience, it’s about finding a place where your child feels safe, cared for, and inspired to learn. In Calgary, families have many childcare options—each with its own philosophy, standards, and structure. This guide highlights what to look for when comparing daycares, from licensing and staff credentials to curriculum, safety, and communication. At Chapter 1 Daycare, we understand the trust you place in us, and we’re proud to meet and exceed Alberta’s childcare standards.
Check licensing and compliance first
Always start by confirming that a daycare is licensed through the Government of Alberta. You can verify this by visiting the Alberta Child Care Lookup Tool on alberta.ca. It lists the center’s license status, program type (such as daycare, out-of-school care, or preschool), maximum capacity, and any recent non-compliance reports.
A current licence means the facility meets provincial standards for safety, staffing, and early learning. When visiting, ask to see the posted license, insurance details, and recent inspection reports. Licensed centers are regularly reviewed to ensure adherence to the Early Learning and Child Care Act—a level of oversight that unlicensed providers do not have.
Staff qualifications, training, and turnover
The people caring for your child make the biggest difference. In Alberta, all licensed programs must employ certified early childhood educators who hold provincial Child Care Staff Certificates (Level 1, 2, or 3). You can ask what level your child’s lead educator holds and whether staff receive ongoing professional development or first-aid recertification.
Low staff turnover is equally important. Consistency allows children to form trusting relationships and supports emotional security. When you tour a center, observe how educators interact with children—do they get down to the child’s level, listen attentively, and speak with warmth? At Chapter 1 Daycare, we maintain high staff-to-child ratios and encourage professional growth so our team can provide stable, responsive care.
Ratios, group sizes, and classroom structure
Alberta regulates maximum group sizes and ratios based on age. For infants, the required ratio is lower to ensure attentive supervision; toddlers and preschoolers have slightly larger group sizes. A well-staffed center means children receive more one-on-one attention and support.
Ask about how classrooms are organized. Some daycares group children by developmental stage rather than strict age, allowing flexible learning experiences. You can also ask if “float” staff are available to cover breaks, ensuring ratios are never compromised. Balanced group sizes help maintain calm, structured environments where children can learn safely and confidently.
Safety, health, and facility standards
A clean, secure environment is non-negotiable. During your visit, check for secure entry systems, childproofing on cabinets and outlets, clean play surfaces, and visible emergency procedures. Ask how the center handles diapering, nap supervision, and the sanitation of toys and eating areas.
Health policies should outline procedures for illness, immunizations, and medication. Food safety is another key point—look for posted hygiene certifications and ask how allergies are managed. A well-run facility will be transparent about its safety routines and should never hesitate to show you around.
Daily routines, curriculum, and learning approach
A balanced day should combine structure with flexibility. High-quality daycares offer a play-based curriculum that promotes curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving. Ask to see a sample daily schedule: it should include circle time, sensory activities, outdoor play, quiet rest, and free exploration.
At Chapter 1 Daycare, our curriculum supports social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. We focus on early literacy, hands-on learning, and self-help skills that prepare children for kindergarten. Outdoor play and open-ended materials encourage independence and confidence.
Communication and parent partnership
Transparent communication builds trust between parents and caregivers. Ask how the center keeps you informed about your child’s day—daily reports, photo updates, or parent-teacher meetings. Some centers use digital platforms to share notes and milestones, while others provide written summaries at pick-up.
Consistent feedback helps parents stay connected and reassured. At Chapter 1 Daycare, we send daily digital reports that include meals, naps, and highlights from the day, along with photos that capture learning moments. We also hold regular meetings so families can discuss progress and goals.
Nutrition, snacks, and allergies
Good nutrition supports growth and learning. Inquire whether meals are provided or if parents pack lunches. Centers that prepare meals should follow Alberta’s food safety standards and offer balanced, age-appropriate menus.
If your child has allergies or dietary restrictions, confirm that staff are trained in allergy awareness and emergency protocols. A transparent meal plan—with ingredients listed—shows accountability and care. We provide nutritious, home-style meals and accommodate dietary needs to keep every child safe and nourished.
Fees, subsidies, and scheduling flexibility
Daycare fees vary across Calgary based on age group, program hours, and center facilities. Ask for a clear breakdown of tuition, registration fees, and any additional charges for late pick-up or special programs. Alberta families may qualify for provincial childcare subsidies; licensed centres can help guide you through that process.
Flexibility matters, especially for working parents. Many centers offer part-time or extended-hours options. At Chapter 1 Daycare, we design schedules to fit family needs—offering full-time, part-time, and flexible care plans with transparent pricing and no hidden fees.
Observation: what to look for during a tour
A centre tour gives you valuable insight beyond brochures or websites. Observe how staff engage with children—are they attentive and patient? Notice the atmosphere: a calm, organized room suggests consistent routines.
Ask to see play areas, nap spaces, and outdoor facilities. Check for labeled cubbies, posted schedules, and visible emergency contacts. Talk to other parents if possible. You can also request a review of cleaning logs or inspection reports. Trust your instincts—if a center feels welcoming and well-managed, your child is more likely to thrive there.
Red flags to watch for
Some warning signs should prompt caution. High staff turnover, defensive answers about policies, or restricted parent access can signal management issues. Other red flags include poor cleanliness, unclear discipline strategies, lack of posted licensing information, or outdated safety equipment.
A reputable daycare is always transparent about its operations, welcomes questions, and respects parent involvement.
How Chapter 1 Daycare meets these criteria
At Chapter 1 Daycare, we are a fully licensed Calgary childcare center meeting Alberta’s Early Learning and Child Care regulations. Our educators hold certified childcare credentials and valid first-aid training. We maintain small group sizes with appropriate staff-to-child ratios, ensuring personalized attention and consistency.
Our facility features secure entry, bright classrooms, age-appropriate learning materials, and dedicated nap and outdoor play areas. We emphasize health and safety—daily sanitization routines, allergy-sensitive menus, and transparent illness protocols are standard practice.
Our play-based curriculum encourages curiosity, empathy, and early learning skills through hands-on activities and guided exploration. Parents receive daily updates through our digital platform and are always welcome to discuss their child’s progress.
Flexibility is part of our philosophy: families can choose full-time or part-time care, with clear pricing and support for provincial subsidy applications. We take pride in being a dependable partner in your child’s early education journey.
Making the final decision and trial periods
After researching and visiting several centers, consider arranging a short trial period to see how your child adjusts. Observe communication from staff, your child’s comfort level, and whether the daily routine aligns with your family’s expectations. Many parents also ask for references from current families to gain firsthand insight.
Choosing a daycare is ultimately about trust and fit. When you find a center where your child feels happy, safe, and engaged—and where staff treat you as a valued partner—you’ve found the right place.