8 Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Creche
L’Enfant Roi shares its expertise to help you select the ideal childcare facility for your child, without stress or unpleasant surprises.
Taking the "Montessori" label at face value
Many establishments claim to follow the Montessori approach, but only those that use certified materials, have specifically trained staff, and provide an environment aligned with the method can genuinely make that claim.
Our advice
- Observe the materials: it should be complete, specific, and used correctly, of good quality (prefer wood over plastic).
Forgetting that each age has specific needs
A baby doesn’t have the same needs as a two-year-old. The layout, activities, and daily rhythm should adapt accordingly.
Our advice
- Look for areas separated by coherent age groups.
- Ask what materials are designated for each group and how transitions are handled.
Choosing only the closest creche
Proximity is convenient, but it shouldn’t take precedence over the quality of care, wellbeing, and safety.
Our advice
- Visit thoroughly, even if the location seems ideal.
- Pay attention to the atmosphere, how educators speak, and the emotional climate.
Not asking about the creche staff
Low turnover and appropriate qualifications are signs of quality and continuity.
Our advice
- Ask who cares for the children, how stable the team is, and how long staff members have been there.
- Inquire about multilingualism: are home languages respected and supported?
Visiting a creche that doesn't feel "alive"
A quality creche thrives through its educational project, which guides daily practices and decisions.
Our advice
- Ask how the educational approach is integrated into a typical day.
- Inquire about current projects (gardening, music, outings…).
Forgetting to involve parents in the educational project
Close collaboration between family and creche supports a child’s harmonious development.
Our advice
- Ask about parent-child workshops, summer events, etc.
- Offer your own talents (music, cooking, art…): the creche should welcome contributions.
Relying only on reputation or word of mouth
A highly recommended creche may not suit your child’s unique needs or personality. Reputation is a good starting point but cannot replace a visit or your own impressions.
Our advice
- Always schedule a visit to observe the atmosphere, staff, and spaces.
- Ask specific questions to see whether the creche’s operations meet your expectations.
Ignoring how the creche communicates on a daily basis
A strong relationship between creche and parents relies on clear, regular, and supportive communication. It’s best to ask about the tools used (notebook, app, informal chats) and the role of families in tracking daily activities.
Our advice
- Ask how daily updates are provided: via an app, notebook, or time for exchange at drop-off/pick-up.
- Ask how you’re informed about minor incidents or changes during the day.
To go further…
Receive your free daycare visitor guide
Creche Visit Guide – the complete checklist to prepare for your first visit (link to content). Browse our expert advice to compare the different facilities.
Our approach explained here: principles, values, and commitments.
Principles, values and commitments
We explain our Montessori approach and pedagogy in detail.
Come visit our L’Enfant Roi creche
Want to experience our Montessori environment and meet our teams in person? Book your visit now and take the first step toward the ideal creche for your child.