Are You Seeing These 10 Green Flags at Your Early Childhood Centre?

Picking the right early childhood centre for your child is a big deal. Whether you're going back to work, need some time for yourself, or want your little one to make friends, it's totally normal to feel nervous. You want to make sure your child is safe, happy, and well cared for.

To help you feel more confident, here are some green flags—good signs that a centre is a great choice.

A brightly decorated classroom setup features a wooden table with four chairs, equipped with colourful puzzle boards and a central divider for focused learning activities.

1. A Friendly, Welcoming Feeling

When you walk in, does it feel warm and inviting? A good centre will have friendly staff who greet you and your child with a smile. The kids should look happy and busy, and the educators should seem excited to be there.

2. Caring and Supportive Educators at the Early Childhood Centre

Great educators take the time to get to know each child. They talk to kids at their level, offer comfort when needed, and help them learn to do things on their own in a kind way.

3. Staff Who Stay for a Long Time

Kids feel more secure when they see the same friendly faces every day. If a centre has teachers who have been there for a long time, it’s a sign that it’s a great place to work—and that means it’s probably a great place for kids, too!

4. Fun and Engaging Activities

Children learn best through play. Look for a centre that offers a variety of activities like storytelling, music, arts and crafts, and outdoor play. There should be lots of hands-on learning and space for kids to explore.

A teacher engages with young students during an art activity, fostering creativity in a colorful and vibrant classroom environment.

5. A Clean and Safe Space

While kids can be messy, the centre itself should be tidy and well cared for. Toys and equipment should be in good shape, and safety rules should be in place. Good hygiene, like handwashing and clean eating areas, is also really important.

6. Good Communication with Parents

A great centre will keep parents in the loop. Whether through daily updates, an open-door policy, or an app, you should always feel informed about your child’s day and progress.

7. Children Are Heard and Respected

Kids should feel like their opinions and feelings matter. A good centre will let children make choices, help them talk through problems, and encourage them to share their thoughts.

8. Healthy Food and Plenty of Outdoor Play

Kids need good food to keep their energy up! If meals and snacks are provided, they should be healthy and balanced. Outdoor play is just as important—kids need time to run, climb, and explore in fresh air.

9. Kids Play Well Together

Watch how children interact. Do they seem to get along and enjoy playing together? Educators should gently help them learn to share, be kind, and solve problems in a positive way.

10. Happy Kids

The best sign of all—are the kids happy? If you see children laughing, playing, and feeling comfortable, that’s a great sign that the centre is a good fit.

A teacher engages young children in a creative building activity using colourful blocks

Trust Your Gut

As a parent, you know when something feels right. If a centre matches your values and makes both you and your child feel good, you’ve found a great place.

It’s okay to feel emotional about choosing childcare—it’s a big step! But when you find the right centre, it can be a wonderful place for your child to learn and grow. You’re doing great!