A parent's primer to navigating options and expectations before your little one’s first day of Childcare
Kids need to be cared for, and sometimes it takes a village. Whether you’re returning to work, seeking social opportunities for your toddler, or simply looking for a trusted partner in your child’s early development, choosing childcare is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. The good news? Maryland offers strong oversight of licensed childcare providers, along with resources to help families make informed decisions. Here’s what to know before your little one’s first day.
Start with Licensing
Your first step should always be confirming that a childcare center or family childcare home is licensed or registered through the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), Office of Child Care. Licensed providers must meet state requirements for staff qualifications, child-to-teacher ratios, health and safety standards, emergency preparedness, nutrition, sanitation, and ongoing inspections. Don’t hesitate to ask a provider about its licensing status, inspection history, and safety procedures. High-quality programs welcome these conversations and are happy to answer parents’ questions.
Look Beyond the Basics with Maryland EXCELS
Licensing establishes the minimum standards, but many Maryland families also look for programs participating in Maryland EXCELS, the state’s Quality Rating and Improvement System. Participating programs receive ratings on a scale of 1 through 5, with higher ratings reflecting continued investments in staff development, curriculum, family engagement, administrative practices, and nationally recognized quality standards. A level 5 program has achieved the highest quality rating and state or national accreditation. While an EXCELS rating isn’t required, it offers parents another valuable tool when comparing childcare options.
Tour with a Critical Eye
A brochure can tell you what a program says it offers. A tour shows you how it actually operates. As you visit programs, look for: Warm, attentive teachers who interact positively with children. Clean, organized classrooms with age-appropriate materials. Secure entrances and visitor check-in procedures. Safe indoor and outdoor play spaces. Calm, engaging classrooms where children appear comfortable and involved. Clearly posted emergency plans, health policies, and daily schedules
Pay attention to how staff members greet children and communicate with families. Those everyday interactions often reveal the culture of a program better than any marketing materials.
Ask the Right Questions
Parents should feel comfortable asking detailed questions before enrolling. An experienced provider will appreciate your interest and answer openly.
Consider asking: What is your child-to-teacher ratio? How long have your teachers worked here? What training do staff members receive each year? How do you comfort children during difficult transitions? How do you communicate daily updates with families? What is your illness policy? How are emergencies handled? How do you support each child’s developmental milestones? Can parents tour the facility and observe classrooms before enrolling?
Preparing for the Transition
The first few weeks of childcare can be emotional for children and parents alike. Some toddlers adapt immediately, while others need several weeks to become comfortable with a new routine.
You can make the transition easier by:
- Visiting the classroom together before the first day
- Talking positively about “school” and new friends
- Establish consistent bedtime and morning routines
- Sending a favorite blanket or comfort item if allowed
- Keeping goodbyes short, calm, and reassuring
Remember that tears at drop-off are common and usually temporary. Most children quickly settle into their daily routine once parents leave.
Expect Plenty of Learning Through Play
The best childcare programs understand that toddlers learn through exploration, not worksheets. Experiences build social, emotional, language, and motor skills that prepare children for preschool and beyond. Daily activities could include: Story time and early language development, Music, movement, and singing, Sensory play, Outdoor recreation, Creative art projects, Opportunities to practice sharing, problem-solving, and independence
Communication is Key
A quality childcare program views parents as partners. Many Maryland providers use secure apps or daily reports to share activities, meals, nap times, diaper changes, and photos throughout the day. Regular communication helps families stay connected and allows caregivers to better understand each child’s individual needs. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or share concerns. Open communication benefits everyone, especially your child.
Expect a Few Sniffles
One surprise for many first-time childcare families is how often children catch common colds during their first year. Exposure to other children naturally increases encounters with everyday viruses. While frequent minor illnesses can be frustrating, they’re a normal part of building young immune systems. Ask prospective providers about handwashing practices, cleaning procedures, immunization requirements, and illness policies. Strong health protocols help reduce the spread of infections while keeping children and staff safe.
Trust Both Research and Instinct
Choosing childcare isn’t simply about finding an available opening—it’s about finding the right fit for your family. Review licensing information, compare Maryland EXCELS ratings, ask thoughtful questions, and observe how caregivers interact with children. Then trust your instincts. When you walk into the right program, you’ll likely notice children who are engaged, caregivers who are patient and attentive, and an atmosphere that feels warm, safe, and welcoming. Your child’s first year in childcare is filled with milestones: making new friends, building confidence, developing independence, and discovering the joy of learning. By doing your homework before enrollment, you’ll be setting the stage for a successful beginning that benefits your entire family.
State Childcare Resources
Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), Office of Child Care. The Office of Child Care licenses childcare centers and family childcare homes throughout Maryland. Parents can learn about licensing requirements, health and safety regulations, and consumer education resources to help evaluate providers. More info | earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org. Maryland EXCELS. Maryland EXCELS is the state’s Quality Rating and Improvement System for licensed childcare and early education programs. Participating providers earn quality ratings on a scale of 1 to 5, giving families another way to compare programs beyond basic licensing requirements. More info | marylandexcels.org. Check Child Care Maryland. Before enrolling your child, review a provider’s licensing status, inspection reports, and compliance history through Maryland’s online childcare search tool. More info | checkccmd.org. LOCATE: Child Care. Operated by Maryland Family Network, LOCATE: Child Care is a free referral service that helps parents find licensed childcare programs based on location, a child’s age, schedule, and other family needs. Childcare specialists can also answer questions about choosing quality care. More info | marylandfamilynetwork.org/programs/locate
Before You Enroll Checklist
Use this checklist as you compare childcare providers and prepare for your child’s first day.
Verify the Basics. Confirm the program is licensed by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), Office of Child Care. Review the provider’s licensing and inspection history. Ask whether the program participates in Maryland EXCELS
Visit the Program. Tour the classrooms during normal operating hours. Observe how caregivers interact with children. Check that classrooms, playgrounds, and common areas are clean, organized, and secure. Ask about daily schedules, meals, naps, and outdoor play
Meet the Care Team. Ask about staff qualifications, training, and CPR/First Aid certification. Learn about child-to-teacher ratios and class sizes. Ask how long teachers have worked at the program and how staff continuity is maintained
Understand the Policies. Review tuition, payment schedules, and vacation or holiday closures. Ask about illness policies, medication administration, and emergency procedures. Understand the program’s approach to discipline, guidance, and positive behavior support
Prepare Your Child. Schedule a visit before the first day so your child can explore the classroom. Label all personal belongings, including clothing, bottles, blankets, and comfort items. Complete required enrollment and health forms, including immunization records. Establish consistent bedtime and morning routines before your child’s start date
Stay Connected. Learn how teachers communicate with families through daily reports, emails, or parent apps. Share your child’s routines, allergies, preferences, and comfort strategies. Plan to check in regularly with caregivers during the first few weeks as everyone adjusts
