What to Watch Out for When Choosing Childcare
Choosing Childcare Is One of the Most Important Decisions You'll Make
As a parent, you’re not just looking for a place to leave your child while you work—you’re choosing an environment that will shape how they see themselves, others, and the world.
At Tiny Scholars, we understand how personal and pivotal this choice is. That’s why we’ve created a space where children thrive not only intellectually, but also emotionally, socially, and spiritually.
Whether you’re evaluating options in your neighbourhood or wondering what really sets one daycare apart from another, here are five key things to watch out for—and how Tiny Scholars meets (and exceeds) each one.
1. Is Safety More Than Just a Buzzword?
The most basic expectation is safety—but too often, centres treat it as a checklist rather than a culture.
At Tiny Scholars, safety is non-negotiable. The facility is fully secured with controlled entry, real-time monitoring, and child-friendly spaces free from hazards. All staff are trained in emergency response, and clear protocols are in place for everything from illness to fire drills.
“Safety isn’t just about physical protection—it’s about emotional safety, too.”
🧡 But safety isn’t just about physical protection—it’s about emotional safety, too. Our educators foster a nurturing environment where every child feels safe to express, explore, and grow.
2. Are the Educators Qualified—and Truly Present?
Always ask: are the educators certified Early Childhood Educators (ECEs)? Do they receive ongoing training? Do they actively engage with the children or simply supervise from a distance?
At Tiny Scholars, all lead educators are qualified ECEs who undergo continuous professional development. But more importantly, they’re deeply passionate about building meaningful, heart-to-heart relationships with each child. That’s central to our Heart-to-Heart programme—a relational approach to learning that sees the child not as a task, but as a whole person.
We believe emotional intelligence begins with emotionally intelligent adults.
3. Does the Curriculum Treat Play as the Work of Childhood?
Many childcare centres tout curriculum, but it often mimics early schoolwork with worksheets and rigid structures.
Tiny Scholars is grounded in play-based learning, supported by decades of research in early childhood development. Play isn’t a break from learning—it is learning. Whether children are building with blocks, digging in the garden, or pretending to be doctors, they are developing problem-solving skills, emotional regulation, creativity, and social understanding.
Our approach follows the child’s curiosity while carefully introducing structure, routine, and challenge within a nature-inspired environment.
4. Is the Environment Intentionally Designed?
The physical space tells a story. Ask yourself: does the environment reflect care, calm, and creativity? Or is it crowded, chaotic, or sterile?
At Tiny Scholars, every detail—from the natural wood furnishings to our earth-toned interior design—is intentional. Our spaces are calming, uncluttered, and filled with materials that stimulate imagination while supporting focus and emotional regulation.
This is more than a childcare centre. It’s a place designed to feel like a second home, rooted in peace, beauty, and purpose.
5. Do You Feel Like a Valued Partner, or Just Another Parent?
Great childcare doesn’t replace parents—it partners with them.
Tiny Scholars places a high value on transparent communication. Families receive regular updates, photos, and reports on their child’s development. We host family events, provide resources, and maintain an open-door policy for collaboration.
“Great childcare doesn’t replace parents—it partners with them.”
You’ll never be in the dark about your child’s day or development. We see you as co-educators in your child’s journey.
Tiny Scholars: Where Quality Childcare Meets Heart-Centred Learning
Choosing a childcare centre is more than a logistical decision—it’s a values-based one.
At Tiny Scholars, we combine the highest standards of safety, certification, and curriculum with an unwavering belief in the dignity and potential of every child. If you’re seeking a place where your child will be known, nurtured, and inspired to grow in mind and heart, we invite you to explore our centre.
📍 Located in the heart of Amenida Seniors Community in Surrey, our intergenerational setting brings together young children and elders in a vibrant, life-giving environment.
🔗 Ready to See the Difference?
Book a Tour Today or Contact Tiny Scholars to learn more about our unique approach and community.