Choosing a daycare is one of the biggest decisions a parent can make. You are not just choosing a place for your child to spend the day — you are choosing the people who will help nurture, guide, comfort, and support them during some of their most important developmental years.
With so many childcare options in Calgary, it can feel overwhelming knowing where to start. Here are a few of the most important things to look for when searching for the right daycare for your family.
1. Look Beyond the Classroom — Focus on the Relationships
A beautiful classroom is wonderful, but the most important part of any childcare centre is the educators.
When touring a daycare, pay attention to how educators interact with the children. Are they down at the child’s level? Are they warm, patient, and engaged? Do the children seem comfortable and connected to them?
Research consistently shows that strong, responsive relationships are one of the biggest indicators of quality early childhood care.
At Connections ELCC, we believe children learn best when they feel safe, loved, and connected.
2. Ask About Educator Qualifications
In Alberta, licensed childcare educators are required to hold provincial certification and meet licensing requirements.
Ask about educator training, experience, and professional development opportunities. A strong childcare team should be continuously learning and growing.
Our team at Connections includes passionate educators who are committed to creating meaningful learning experiences while supporting children’s emotional well-being, confidence, and resilience.
3. Make Sure the Environment Feels Calm and Safe
A quality childcare centre should feel welcoming, organized, clean, and secure.
Things to look for include:
- Secure entry systems
- Clean learning environments
- Age-appropriate materials
- Safe outdoor play spaces
- Clear emergency procedures
Licensed childcare centres in Alberta must meet strict health and safety regulations designed to protect children.
4. Ask About Outdoor Play
Children need fresh air, movement, and opportunities to connect with nature.
Outdoor play supports physical development, emotional regulation, creativity, and resilience. It should be an important part of every child’s day.
One thing that makes Connections unique is our covered outdoor play space — the first approved covered outdoor playground of its kind in Alberta. This allows children to enjoy outdoor experiences throughout the year, even during Calgary’s changing weather.
5. Learn About Their Philosophy
Every childcare centre approaches learning differently.
Some programs are more structured, while others focus on child-led exploration and play-based learning.
At Connections ELCC, our philosophy blends elements of Reggio Emilia, Montessori principles, mindfulness, and relationship-based care. We focus on helping children build confidence, emotional awareness, kindness, resilience, and a strong sense of belonging.
6. Trust Your Instincts
Sometimes the biggest sign is simply how a place makes you feel.
Do you feel welcomed when you walk in?
Can you picture your child there?
Do the educators seem genuinely happy to be with the children?
As parents, we often know when something feels right.
Finding the Right Fit for Your Family
There is no single “perfect” daycare. The best daycare is the one where your child feels safe, supported, loved, and excited to learn.
At Connections ELCC, we have created a nurturing, family-like environment where children are encouraged to build confidence, develop meaningful relationships, and grow into resilient, kind, and capable little humans.
If you are currently searching for childcare in Calgary, we would love to welcome you for a tour and show you what makes Connections so special.
Because at the end of the day, children deserve more than supervision — they deserve connection.