The Daycare Tour Checklist

52 questions across 11 categories — safety, staff, curriculum, meals, emergencies, and pricing. Step through on your phone during the visit, or grab the printable PDF.

Maintained by the California Daycares editorial team Last updated July 15, 2026

Step 1 of 120 / 52 checked · 0%

Core category

Safety & Licensing

0 / 7

1.1
Can I see your current CCLD license and most recent inspection report?
▸Licensed providers must show these on request.
1.2
Any substantiated complaints or citations in the last 2 years? Outcome?
▸Transparency = green flag. Evasion = warning.
1.3
Background-check policy for all adults with access to children?
▸CA requires fingerprint + child-abuse clearances.
1.4
How is the facility secured during the day? Who can enter?
▸Look for locked doors, sign-in, pickup auth.
1.5
How are playground equipment and toys inspected and cleaned?
▸Ask for a written schedule; check for wear.
1.6
Can I review your recent licensing visits and any substantiated complaints from the last few years?
▸The paper trail shows patterns a walkthrough will miss.
1.7
How do you handle authorized pickup lists, restricted pickup situations, or court orders?
▸A clear written protocol protects kids in messy custody cases.

Based on public CA CDSS guidance + input from licensed providers. Search 28,000+ licensed providers →

The Daycare Tour Checklist

Safety & Licensing

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