Start With Licensing: Non-Negotiable

Every daycare you tour in Calgary should be licensed under Alberta’s Child Care Licensing Act. Licensing means the facility undergoes regular government inspections and must meet provincial standards for staff qualifications, group sizes, health and safety, and programming. Don’t be afraid to ask directly: “Are you a licensed facility, and can I see your current license?” A reputable centre will have no hesitation answering.

1. Ask About Staff-to-Child Ratios

Lower ratios generally mean more individual attention for your child, particularly in the infant and toddler rooms where developmental needs shift quickly. Ask how ratios are maintained throughout the day, including during nap time transitions and outdoor play, not just on paper.

2. Look at Educator Qualifications and Turnover

Ask how long the team has been together and what certifications educators hold. Consistency matters enormously for young children, since a stable team of familiar faces builds the trust and security that helps kids settle in and thrive.

3. Understand the Daily Routine

A good program balances structured activities with child-led play, outdoor time, and rest. Ask to see a sample daily schedule and how it flexes for different ages within a room.

4. Ask What’s Included in the Daily Fee

Some centres charge extra for meals, diapers, or supplies. Others, like Bright Kids, prepare all meals fresh on-site and include them in the daily rate. Clarify this upfront so you can compare costs accurately between centres.

5. Visit in Person, at Drop-Off or Pick-Up Time

Photos and websites only tell part of the story. Seeing how educators greet children in the morning, and how calm or chaotic the room feels, tells you a lot about day-to-day culture.

6. Ask About Communication

Many Calgary daycares now use apps to share photos, meal notes, and nap logs throughout the day. Ask what tool is used and how often you can expect updates.

7. Check the Outdoor Space

Alberta winters are long, but outdoor time remains an important part of a balanced day. Ask how the centre approaches outdoor play across all four seasons.

8. Trust Your Gut

After the checklist, the final decision often comes down to feel. Do the educators seem genuinely warm with the children already in their care? Does your child seem comfortable when you visit? That instinct is worth listening to.

Ready to See It in Person?

The best way to evaluate any daycare is to walk through it yourself. Bright Kids Daycare offers tours at all of our Calgary locations, and we’d encourage you to bring this checklist along.