How to Choose the Right Daycare in Brooklyn, NY

A Parent’s Guide from Lefferts Garden Promise

Lefferts Garden Promise — 502 Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11225 · 718-210-8261

Finding the right daycare for your child is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a parent. This guide walks you through the key factors to consider, the questions to ask, what to watch for on a tour, and how to choose a center that fits your family's needs in Brooklyn, NY.

1. Decide what you need

Start by clarifying your priorities so you can compare centers fairly:

• Location: How far are you willing to travel for drop-off/pick-up in [City]?
• Hours: Do you need full-time, part-time, or extended hours?
• Age groups: Infants, toddlers, preschool, before/after school care?
• Budget: What can you afford (and what’s included)?
• Philosophy: Play-based, Montessori, religious, academic/prep?

2. Licensing, accreditation, and safety

Make sure each center you consider meets legal and safety standards:

• Is the center licensed by the state of [State]? (Look up your state’s childcare licensing website.)
• Does the staff have current CPR/First Aid and background checks?
• Ask about health policies: illness exclusion, medication procedures, and emergency plans.
• Is the facility well-maintained, childproofed, and free of obvious hazards?

3. Staff qualifications and turnover

The people who care for your child matter more than fancy toys or bright walls.

• What are the caregivers’ educational qualifications and experience?
• Ask about staff-to-child ratios for your child’s age group (lower ratios are better).
• How long have teachers typically been at the center? High turnover can affect consistency and quality.

4. Daily routine and curriculum

Look for a predictable daily rhythm that includes play, rest, meals, and learning.

• Does the center have a written schedule or curriculum? Is it age-appropriate?
• How much time do children spend outdoors each day?
• Is there a balance of free play and structured activities, and how are learning goals measured?

5. Health, nutrition, and nap policies

• Does the center provide meals/snacks? If so, are menus posted and do they meet your family’s dietary needs?
• What are the nap/rest policies for infants vs. toddlers?
• How does the center manage allergies and special medical needs?

6. Communication and family engagement

Good centers keep families informed and involved.

• How does the center update parents (app, daily sheet, email, in-person)?
• Are there regular parent-teacher meetings, progress reports, or family events?
• Is the director approachable and responsive when you raise questions or concerns?

7. What to look for on a tour

When you visit, pay attention to the environment and interactions—not just the decorating.

• Do teachers greet children warmly and engage at eye level?
• Are children actively playing and visibly content (not listless or overly chaotic)?
• Is the space clean, organized, and stocked with age-appropriate materials?
• Do classrooms post schedules, learning goals, and sample lesson plans?
• Are security measures visible (locked doors, sign-in/out, visitor policies)?

8. Important questions to ask

Bring this quick checklist when you call or tour:

1. Is your center licensed and insured?
2. What are your staff-to-child ratios for my child’s age?
3. What is your illness policy and how do you notify parents?
4. How do you handle discipline and behavioral guidance?
5. What is your staff turnover rate in the past year?
6. Are meals and diapers included, or are they the parents' responsibility?
7. Can you provide references from current families?
8. What are the fees, billing schedule, and contract terms?

9. Red flags to watch for

Be cautious if you notice any of the following:

• Unexplained odor, dirty or cluttered spaces, or overflowing trash.
• Staff seem disengaged, hurried, or unclear about policies.
• Children are unsupervised or consistently crying without comfort.
• Center avoids showing licensing documents, inspection reports, or references.

10. Trial periods, waitlists, and final checks

Once you narrow options:

• Ask about a trial or short-term introduction to see how your child adjusts.
• If the center has a waitlist, confirm how it works and whether sibling priority exists.
• Check your state’s licensing website for inspection history or complaints.

Local tips for families

To make a local search easier:

• Search for reviews and parent groups on Facebook and local parenting forums.
• Visit nearby parks and playgrounds to observe other local families and ask for recommendations.
• Check if the center participates in community events or partners with local schools—this strengthens local trust and fit.

Contact Lefferts Garden Promise

Visit us: 502 Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11225

Phone: 718-210-8261