Choosing childcare isn’t exactly a stroll in the park. With countless options and differing philosophies, it’s easy to feel a bit overwhelmed—and you might be wondering, “When should I book that tour?” Let’s break it down.
Hear from the experts at G8 Education on the topic:
Take a look at all the options G8 Education has to offer when it comes to childcare.
Start Early—But Not Too Early
If you’re anything like us, you want to have all your bases covered. And here’s a nugget of wisdom: the earlier, the better. Don’t wait until you’re in a rush. Instead, start scheduling tours as soon as you’ve got a shortlist of centres. Even if you’re not quite ready to enroll (or don’t know if you’ll be ready), taking a tour now can help you gather valuable insights and build a mental checklist for your future childcare needs.
“Tours let you explore the learning environments, learn about the educational programs, and meet the teachers and educators that support your child’s learning journey”, explains Darren, National Family Support Team Manager at G8 Education.
Think of it like window shopping for your dream home—you wouldn’t wait until you’re desperate to move in to check out the neighbourhood, right? Touring centres early gives you time to compare, contrast, and really feel out the vibe before making any commitments.
How Many Tours Is Too Many?
Now, here’s a burning question: Should you tour every single option on your list? The answer isn’t black and white. While it might sound ideal to see it all, practicality comes into play. Start with a curated list of your top choices. Narrow it down by reading reviews, talking to other parents, or even checking out online resources like Care for Kids. Focus on centres that tick the boxes for your must-haves—be it a particular teaching philosophy, convenient location, or the kind of atmosphere that makes your gut say, “Yes, this feels right.”
By narrowing your options, you save time and energy while ensuring you’re not overwhelmed by endless visits. After all, you’re not shopping for a new smartphone—you’re choosing a nurturing environment for your little one.
The Value of Touring Even If You’re Not Ready to Enrol
Let’s debunk a common myth: you only need to tour when you’re ready to commit. In reality, a tour is like a sneak peek into your child’s potential future home away from home. It gives you a chance to ask questions, observe how the educators interact with children, and even get a feel for the daily routines. These insights are pure gold when it comes to making an informed decision later on.
Even if you’re not ready to enrol right away, a tour can help you plan ahead and reduce future stress. It’s like researching travel destinations long before you book your flight—you’ll know exactly what to expect and can plan accordingly.
Key Questions to Ask on Your Tour
While you’re out there touring, don’t be shy about asking questions. Here are a few to get you started:
- How do educators support early learning and development?
- What’s the daily routine like?
- How does the centre handle transitions and communication with parents?
- Are there opportunities for parent involvement?
- What safety measures are in place?
These questions not only help you gauge the centre’s approach to childcare but also give you a sense of how well they’ll mesh with your family’s values and needs. Download our Childcare Tour Checklist for a full list of questions and things to consider when you visit your childcare options.
Make It a Learning Experience
Each tour is a chance to learn, ask, and observe. It’s not just about the physical space; it’s about the vibe, the energy, and the interactions you witness. Use your tours as a benchmark to compare centres and refine what you’re looking for. Take notes, snap a few photos, and maybe even have a chat with a couple of other parents there. Their insights can be invaluable.
Booking childcare centre tours early—and even if you're not quite ready to commit—can set you up for success. It’s about gathering information, building confidence, and knowing what to expect when the time comes to make that big decision.
So, start exploring your options, narrow down your must-haves, and treat each tour as a valuable learning experience. After all, your child’s future is worth a little extra legwork now, isn’t it?
Happy touring, and here’s to finding the right fit for your family!
Got more questions about childcare? Childcare 101 has all the answers from the experts.
