How to Choose a Daycare in Northeast Philadelphia: A Parent’s Checklist

Choosing a daycare is one of the biggest decisions a Northeast Philadelphia parent makes. You are trusting someone else with your child during the hours you cannot be there. The good news is that a few clear questions will tell you almost everything you need to know. Here is a practical checklist you can use on any tour.

1. Is the center licensed and quality-rated?

In Pennsylvania, every childcare center must be state-licensed. Beyond that, the Keystone STARS program rates centers from STAR 1 to STAR 4 based on standards, staff training, and learning environment. A STAR 4 rating is the top published tier and is a strong signal of quality. Always ask to see a center’s license and STARS level. (Kids Paradise Daycare is a Keystone STARS 4 center.)

2. What are the child-to-teacher ratios?

Fewer children per teacher means more attention for your child, especially for infants and toddlers. Ask how many children are in each room and how many caregivers. Lower ratios cost the center more to run, so a center that keeps ratios low is investing in your child.

3. How safe and secure is the building?

Look for key-code or buzzer entry, a sign-in and sign-out system, video monitoring, and clear pickup authorization rules so no one can collect your child without permission. Ask how the center handles emergencies and whether staff are CPR-certified.

4. What does a typical day look like?

A good program balances play, learning, meals, outdoor time, and rest. Ask about the curriculum, how they support development at your child’s age, and how they keep infants on their own feeding and napping schedules. You want intentional activities, not just supervision.

5. How do they communicate with parents?

You should never feel out of the loop. Many centers now use an app for daily photos, updates, and messages. Ask how and how often you will hear about your child’s day.

6. What and how do they feed the children?

Nutrition matters more than parents often expect. Ask whether meals are made fresh on-site or brought in, and how they handle allergies and picky eaters. Homemade meals from scratch are a meaningful plus.

7. Does the center feel right?

Trust your instincts on the tour. Are the children engaged and comfortable? Do the caregivers seem warm and patient? Is the space clean and cheerful? A place that feels good to you will usually feel good to your child.

Visit us in Northeast Philadelphia

Kids Paradise Daycare is a daycare in Northeast Philadelphia on Frankford Ave, serving children from six weeks through school age with infant care, preschool, an Early Head Start program, and after-school care. We would love to show you around. Call 215-941-7297 or schedule a tour to see how we measure up to your checklist.