7. There’s no open-door policy—and no trust.
This one’s layered. Sherri made it clear.
“If a center does not have an open-door policy, that’s a huge red flag. It could also symbolize that they’re hiding something.”
At the same time, she’s protective of her classrooms. Some parents, she said, misuse open-door policies to micromanage staff or check in over minor preferences.
“When that child sees you at 1 o’clock, they think it’s time to go,” she explained. “Now the whole day is thrown off.”
Look for providers with clear, balanced policies—ones that allow access, but protect structure and staff dignity too.