Discussions

I have never shopped around for a daycare before, so I'm looking for advice on finding a good one.  
 
In particular I'd like one that won't require the kids to wear masks once they're 2 years old.

Don’t quote me on this but if you don’t want your child to wear a mask, your only option might just be private home daycare or a nanny? I haven’t heard if licensed centre’s and homes no longer have to wear masks but hopefully someone who knows for sure can answer that.  
 
As for looking for a daycare, home or centre, be prepared and have a list of questions you want to ask.  
 
Are they licensed or private?  
How many kids are they allowed? How many do they take on?  
Do they have their child abuse/criminal record/cpr up to date?  
Do they smoke in the house? Pets in the house?  
Read their contract over in detail. Do not sign on if you don’t agree to follow their rules, policies and fees  
What does a typical day look like?  
What types of food do they serve?  
Ask to view their daycare space  
Ask about their sick day and holidays…how often do they take off in a year? Does that work for your schedule  
What does their behaviour plan look like?  
What do they expect from their daycare families?  
Do they spend time outside?  
Do they offer different types of play and activities for the children?  
What does their naptime schedule look like?  
Ask for references not only from current clients but from past ones as well

As far as I know, daycares do not require masks for kids under the age of 5. School age might be different in a licensed center, I know the YMCA before and after school program requires them. My 3 year old attends a licensed daycare in Brandon and masks are not required by kids, only staff.

Licensing only requires masks for kids in school, Kindergarten and up, younger kids are not required.

I would ask for proof workers are all vaccinated for COVID 19.