If you’re running or just starting your own home daycare, one of the most important steps in welcoming new families is the initial parent interview. It’s your chance to showcase your space, explain your program, and begin building the trust that’s so essential in childcare.
In this post, I’m walking you through exactly how I conduct my daycare interviews – from how I prep my home and materials, to what I talk about during the meeting. Plus, I’ve included a free printable interview checklist to help you feel totally prepared and confident for your next parent meeting.
💡 And if you’re looking to spruce up your parent handbook or enrollment forms – or you’re just starting out and need something fully ready to go – I have an editable version available in my TPT and Etsy store!
How I Prepare Before the Interview
Before any family arrives, I spend a little time getting my home and paperwork ready. Here’s what I do:
- Tidy and sanitize the playroom, bathroom, and dining area
- Set out the parent handbook, contract, and any required forms
- Light a candle or diffuse essential oils for a cozy, calm feel
- Set up a quiet meeting area at the kitchen table or another distraction-free spot
- Have a clipboard or folder handy for taking notes
Having these materials printed and organized really helps the meeting run smoothly – and it shows parents you’re professional and prepared.
What I Show Parents During the Tour
I always offer a full walk-through of my daycare space. I want parents to see how the space is set up for safety, learning, and fun. I point out:
- The main play area and learning centers
- The eating and craft area
- Where children nap or rest
- My diapering/potty training area
- The bathroom and hygiene setup
- Our outdoor play space (if season/weather appropriate)
- Parent cubbies or communication station
Even if everything isn’t “Pinterest perfect,” I focus on being warm, organized, and child-centered.
What We Talk About During the Interview
Once we’ve done the tour, we sit down to go over details like:
- Our daily routine (arrival, play, snacks, naps, outdoor time)
- My approach to learning and discipline
- Potty training support and diapering practices
- Food policies and snack routines
- Illness, closures, vacation time, and late pickups
- My expectations for communication and consistency
I always encourage questions and give the family time to look over the materials. I also mention that I understand if they want to go home and think about things before committing – no pressure.
Tips for Hosting a Great Interview
If you’re a new provider or just looking to improve your process, here are a few things I’ve learned along the way:
- Be yourself – your warmth and personality are what will connect with the right families.
- Be clear and consistent – parents appreciate knowing exactly what to expect.
- Trust your gut – if something doesn’t feel like a good fit, it’s okay to move on.
Free Printable: Home Daycare Interview Checklist
To help you feel more prepared, I created a FREE printable interview checklist with everything I go over and prep before my daycare interviews.
👉 Click here to download it now
✨ Need Help Creating Your Parent Handbook?
If your parent handbook or enrollment forms need a little love – or you’re just starting out and want a ready-to-use package – I have a fully editable version available in both my:
🛍️ Teachers Pay Teachers Store
🛒 Etsy Shop
It includes:
- A beautifully designed Parent Handbook
- Editable Contract and Enrollment Forms
- Welcome Letter Templates
All files are easy to edit in Canva and professionally formatted to help you look polished and organized from day one.
Final Thoughts
A great daycare interview sets the tone for a positive parent-provider relationship. With the right prep and a confident mindset, you can create an experience that helps both you and the family feel at ease.
I hope this post was helpful! Be sure to download the free checklist, and let me know in the comments what your favorite interview tips are!
Life with sonja 
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