Choosing a daycare for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. Whether you’re returning to work, seeking social interaction for your child, or simply in need of occasional childcare, finding a trustworthy and high-quality daycare in Surrey is essential. Surrey is home to a wide range of daycare options, from home-based setups to larger licensed childcare centers. But what truly sets apart a quality daycare?
Below, we break down what you should expect from a reputable daycare in Surrey, so you can make an informed, confident decision for your child’s wellbeing and development.
1. Licensing and Accreditation
Why It Matters:
A licensed daycare ensures that the center meets provincial standards for health, safety, and caregiver qualifications. Accreditation may further indicate adherence to best practices in early childhood education.
What to Look For:
- Valid license from Fraser Health or other local governing bodies.
- Certification displayed publicly at the center.
- Staff with certified Early Childhood Educator (ECE) credentials.
- Background checks and first aid training for all caregivers.
In Surrey:
Daycares must comply with British Columbia’s Community Care and Assisted Living Act. You can verify a facility’s licensing status via the Fraser Health licensing office.
2. Clean, Safe, and Child-Friendly Environment
Why It Matters:
A clean and safe environment is vital to a child’s health and comfort. A well-maintained space shows attention to detail and commitment to children’s wellbeing.
What to Look For:
- Secure entry points and childproofed areas.
- Regular cleaning routines and hygiene protocols.
- Age-appropriate toys and learning materials.
- Clear emergency procedures and visible safety equipment.
In Practice:
High-quality daycares in Surrey often exceed basic cleanliness standards, employing professional cleaning services and maintaining daily sanitation logs.
3. Qualified and Caring Staff
Why It Matters:
Experienced and nurturing caregivers are the heart of any great daycare. They not only ensure safety but also support children’s emotional and cognitive growth.
What to Look For:
- Staff-to-child ratios that meet or exceed provincial requirements.
- Positive interactions between staff and children.
- Warm, respectful communication styles.
- Low staff turnover, indicating a stable environment.
In Surrey:
You can expect licensed centers to maintain a ratio of 1 caregiver per 8 children (ages 30 months to school age), ensuring personalized attention.
4. Structured Curriculum and Learning Activities
Why It Matters:
Early childhood education lays the foundation for lifelong learning. A structured, play-based curriculum supports language, math, science, and social skills development.
What to Look For:
- Daily or weekly activity plans shared with parents.
- Activities that promote both individual and group learning.
- Play-based learning integrated with cognitive skill-building.
- Cultural inclusion and age-appropriate material.
In Practice:
Quality Surrey daycares often implement the BC Early Learning Framework or similar models, blending academic learning with physical, emotional, and creative development.
5. Healthy Meals and Snacks
Why It Matters:
Proper nutrition is critical for growing children. Daycares should offer balanced meals and snacks that cater to dietary needs and preferences.
What to Look For:
- Weekly meal plans shared with parents.
- Fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein-rich foods.
- Accommodations for allergies and cultural food restrictions.
- Hygienic food preparation and safe storage.
Note:
Some Surrey daycares provide meals onsite, while others may require parents to pack food. Either way, ensure food policies are clearly communicated and followed.
6. Open Communication with Parents
Why It Matters:
Strong parent-caregiver communication creates a consistent experience for the child and helps address issues early.
What to Look For:
- Daily updates through logbooks, apps, or in-person conversations.
- Regular parent-teacher meetings or progress reports.
- Openness to feedback and concerns.
- Support for developmental or behavioral issues.
In Practice:
Many Surrey centers use apps like HiMama or Brightwheel to provide real-time updates on meals, naps, and activities.
7. Outdoor Play and Physical Activity
Why It Matters:
Daily physical activity helps children develop motor skills, burn energy, and enjoy nature.
What to Look For:
- Safe, age-appropriate outdoor play areas.
- Weather-appropriate outdoor time each day.
- Structured and unstructured physical activities.
- Opportunities for exploring nature and team play.
Note:
In Surrey, many centers leverage the city’s abundance of green spaces, parks, and nature trails for outdoor excursions and learning.
8. Socialization and Emotional Development
Why It Matters:
Learning to interact with peers and express emotions appropriately is a key developmental milestone in early childhood.
What to Look For:
- Small group activities that encourage cooperation.
- Conflict resolution strategies taught by caregivers.
- Emphasis on empathy, sharing, and communication.
- Emotional support for separation anxiety or transitions.
In Practice:
Quality daycare providers in Surrey often use social-emotional learning (SEL) frameworks or tools like emotion cards to help children identify and manage their feelings.
9. Flexible Hours and Reliable Schedule
Why It Matters:
Daycare should support your family’s routine, offering consistency for the child and flexibility for the parent.
What to Look For:
- Clear hours of operation and holiday closures.
- Options for full-day, half-day, or drop-in care.
- Punctuality and consistency in daily routines.
- Minimal disruption or unexpected closures.
In Surrey:
While most centers operate from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM, some offer extended or weekend care depending on demand.
10. Transparent Policies and Clear Contracts
Why It Matters:
Transparency builds trust. From fees to discipline strategies, every policy should be laid out clearly in writing.
What to Look For:
- Written contracts with terms of enrollment, withdrawal, and fees.
- Clear behavior management and illness policies.
- Refund, holiday, and late-pickup guidelines.
- Open-door policy for parental visits or communication.
Pro Tip:
Ask to see the parent handbook or contract before enrolling. A reputable center will be more than happy to share this with you.
11. Diverse and Inclusive Environment
Why It Matters:
Children thrive in environments that respect diversity and promote inclusivity across cultures, abilities, and family types.
What to Look For:
- Diverse staff and culturally inclusive programming.
- Activities celebrating different traditions, holidays, and languages.
- Inclusion policies for children with special needs.
- Gender-neutral toys and inclusive storytelling.
In Practice:
Many Surrey daycare centers celebrate Diwali, Lunar New Year, Christmas, and other festivals to encourage cultural appreciation from an early age.
12. Positive Reviews and Word of Mouth
Why It Matters:
The experience of other families offers insight that you won’t find on brochures or websites.
What to Look For:
- Online reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, or Facebook.
- Testimonials or references from current or past parents.
- Recognition or awards in the local community.
In Surrey:
Local parenting groups on Facebook or community boards often share candid feedback about different daycare centers — a valuable resource during your search.
Conclusion
Finding a quality daycare in Surrey doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By knowing what to look for — from licensing and curriculum to meals, safety, and communication — you can confidently evaluate your options. Remember, a daycare isn’t just a place for children to be looked after. It’s a nurturing, educational environment where your child can grow, thrive, and begin their lifelong love for learning.
Take time to visit multiple centers, ask questions, and observe interactions. The right daycare will not only meet your expectations but will also feel like a natural extension of your home — a trusted partner in your child’s development.
