Finding a daycare in Israel: 24 questions every parent should ask

Whether you’re heading back to work or simply ready to hand over the morning banana battle to someone else, choosing a daycare is one of those important and impactful decisions we have to make as parents.

Let’s start with the basics: there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right daycare for your neighbor might not feel right for your child, your family, or your schedule. But there are a few key questions that can help you assess what matters most and figure out which option fits your needs.

This guide is designed to help you think about more than just location and price, and give you confidence in your decision, especially if you’re navigating the system in a second language.

Start with the basics: Get to know the daycare

Before anything else, you’ll want to understand how the daycare is run. These questions will give you insight into staffing, structure, and communication:

• What’s the adult-to-child ratio? Fewer children per staff member usually means more attention for your child.

• Is the staff trained in CPR and first aid?

• Who exactly will be taking care of my child day-to-day?

• Are there security cameras? And are they for staff use only, or can parents access them too?

• How often will I receive updates or photos? Some places use apps, WhatsApp groups, or just a casual end-of-day summary.

• What are the daycare hours and days? Is it year-round? Do they close for long breaks?

Dig into the daily routine

Young kids thrive on routine. In order to find a daycare that fits your needs, you’ll want to know what a typical day looks like and whether that structure works for your child. Ask:

• What is the schedule like from drop-off to pickup?

• What meals or snacks are provided? Is the food provided by a catering company? Homemade?

• Can I send breastmilk or pumped milk? How is it stored and given?

• Do the kids spend time outside every day? Important if you value movement and fresh air.

• When are naps? Where do they sleep?

• How do you handle discipline or big emotions? Are they supported, redirected, given time-out?

Health, hygiene & safety at the daycare

Here’s what you can ask:

• Are children required to be vaccinated?

• How long has the core staff worked here? High turnover can be a red flag.

• How often are toys and spaces cleaned?

• What’s your sickness policy? Is there a fever cutoff? How many days home for a virus?

• Do you have references I can contact?

• How do you handle emergencies, medical or otherwise?

Specific to life in Israel

Local daycares often follow the school calendar, take long breaks in August, and close early or entirely on holiday eves (erev chag). Some important Israel-specific questions to ask:

• Is Friday included in the monthly price? Many places offer Sunday–Thursday care only.

• Do you close early on erev chag (holiday eves)?

• Are you open in August or offer a 'kaytana' (summer camp)?

• What’s the yearly calendar like? Do you follow the Ministry of Education?

• Is there a protected space on-site (mamad)? We’ve seen how important this is in the last few year.

• What language(s) does the staff speak? Will your child be immersed in Hebrew? Will they understand English or your home language if needed?

Beyond the checklist: What feels right?

Questions are important, but so is the vibe. Pay attention to how staff interact with the kids. Are they warm and engaged, or distracted and mechanical? Are the children happy? And ask yourself:

• Would I feel comfortable calling if I had a concern?

• Would my child feel emotionally safe here?

• Would I feel okay handing them over on a tough morning?
  

Because at the end of the day, you’re choosing the people who will care for your child, soothe them when they cry, celebrate their firsts, and be part of their early story.

Final thoughts about finding a daycare in Israel

Choosing a daycare is a deeply personal decision. There’s no one right answer, but with the right questions in hand, you can make a choice that truly fits your family.