Free Tool

Provider Comparison Tool

Toured multiple daycares or interviewed several nannies? Rate and compare them side-by-side to make your final decision with confidence.

6 Rating Categories
Up to 4 Providers

Provider Comparison Tool

Rate and compare up to 4 childcare providers side-by-side

$

Safety & Security

Secure entry, supervision, emergency procedures

Learning & Activities

Age-appropriate activities, educational approach

Communication

Updates, accessibility, parent involvement

Flexibility

Hours, sick policies, scheduling

Cleanliness

Facility maintenance, hygiene practices

Staff-to-Child Ratio

Number of caregivers per child

$

Safety & Security

Secure entry, supervision, emergency procedures

Learning & Activities

Age-appropriate activities, educational approach

Communication

Updates, accessibility, parent involvement

Flexibility

Hours, sick policies, scheduling

Cleanliness

Facility maintenance, hygiene practices

Staff-to-Child Ratio

Number of caregivers per child

Add at least one rating to compare

Tips for Comparing

  • • Visit each provider before rating to get accurate impressions
  • • Use our 59 Questions to Ask during tours
  • • Consider your daily schedule and commute when evaluating flexibility
  • • Trust your gut - first impressions matter

What to Rate

Safety & Security

Secure entry, supervision levels, emergency procedures, first aid training

Learning & Activities

Age-appropriate curriculum, educational approach, outdoor play, enrichment

Communication

Daily updates, accessibility, parent involvement, responsiveness

Flexibility

Hours of operation, sick policies, vacation scheduling, drop-in availability

Cleanliness

Facility maintenance, hygiene practices, diaper changing procedures

Staff Ratio

Number of caregivers per child, staff turnover, experience levels

Tips for Making Your Decision

1

Visit at Different Times

If possible, visit during drop-off, mid-morning, and pick-up to see how the day flows.

2

Trust Your Gut

First impressions matter. How did you feel walking in? Were staff warm and engaged?

3

Talk to Other Parents

Ask if you can speak with current families. Their real experience is invaluable.

4

Consider Location & Commute

A great provider that adds 30 minutes to your commute may not be practical long-term.

Need questions to ask? Check out our 59 Questions to Ask When Touring a Daycare

MAKE A CONFIDENT CHOICE

Complete Your Evaluation

Get the full toolkit to thoroughly evaluate and choose the right provider

Daycare Evaluation Kit

59 interview questions, safety inspection checklist, red flags reference, and decision matrix.

  • Pre-tour research checklist
  • 40+ safety inspection items
  • Compare 3 providers worksheet

Communication Templates

Email templates for enrollment, concerns, schedule changes, and building relationships.

  • Enrollment confirmation
  • Raising concerns politely
  • Daily report requests
SAVE $18

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Everything you need: evaluation kit, communication templates, transition guide, and separation anxiety toolkit.

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  • $47 value
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