A creche visit is your one chance to get a real feel for the place before you join the waiting list. Print this list, bring it with you, and don't be shy.
- What are your staff-to-child ratios? Tusla minimums are 1:3 under one year, 1:5 under two, 1:6 over two — but the best creches do better.
- When was your last Tusla inspection? Ask to see the report or look it up on tusla.ie.
- What is your settling-in policy? Look for at least one week of phased visits.
- Will my child have a key worker? A named carer who is the main bond and communication point.
- What is your sick child policy? Cover for high temperatures, infectious illness, and Calpol policy.
- Tell me about your outdoor space. Daily outdoor play matters; shared yards are normal in Dublin.
- Is food included? What does a typical menu look like? Check for HSE-approved menus.
- How do you communicate with parents? Daily app updates, weekly emails, parent meetings.
- What's your staff turnover like? Long-tenured staff usually means a happy room.
- What security and CCTV do you have? Locked doors, signed-in visitors, cameras in main rooms.
- How does your waiting list work? Date order, sibling priority, age-band priority.
- What are the fees and payment terms? Deposit, notice period, holiday closures, NCS handling.