Frequently Asked Questions

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Daydreams Childcare has three nearby Salem locations based on age and program needs:
- Daydreams on Kearney: Infant and toddler care, ages 0–2
- Daydreams on Mission: Potty-trained toddler care, ages 2–4.
- Sunny Days Preschool: Pre-K and school-age care
You can request a tour through our contact form or by calling/texting us at 503-508-7881. Tours are scheduled by appointment so we can give each family time to ask questions and see the program.

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For Daydreams on Mission and for Sunny Days Preschool, children are generally expected to be potty trained or close to ready, since the program serves older toddlers and preschool-age children. Generally, children who are not potty trained will attend Daydreams on Kearney. Contact us if you’re unsure whether your child is ready.
Yes. Sunny Days Preschool offers school-age care, including before and after school options. Contact us for current availability and schedule details.

Enrollment depends on current openings at each location and age group. Families are welcome to contact us at any time to ask about availability, rates, and waitlist options.

OPEN FOR ENROLLMENT NOW
Yes. Enrollment is available throughout the year whenever we have an opening. We do not require families to wait for a specific enrollment window.
Yes, we accept ERDC/DHS childcare assistance. Please contact us to confirm current availability and discuss the enrollment process.
Please contact us for current sibling discount options. We’re happy to discuss what may be available for families enrolling more than one child.
Yes. Our three Salem locations are all close together, making drop-off easier for families with children in different age groups.

We are not a certified Montessori school, but we include many child-centered learning elements, including hands-on activities, child-led exploration, independence-building, structured play, and practical life skills.
Daydreams combines the warmth of a home-like childcare environment with the structure, safety, and standards families expect from a center. Our programs offer experienced staff, strong safety procedures, parent communication through Brightwheel, parent-access cameras, fresh meals, and age-specific locations close together in Salem.
Each program has an age-appropriate daily routine that may include:
- Free play
- Group activities
- Songs and stories
- Art and hands-on learning
- Outdoor play
- Meals and snacks
- Rest or nap time
The exact routine depends on the child’s age and location.
Yes, outdoor play is an important part of the day whenever weather and conditions allow.

Yes. We operate with a home-environment license while meeting the requirements and standards of a center. This gives families the best of both worlds: the structure and safety standards of a childcare center, with the comfort and warmth of a home-like environment.
Our minimum ratios are:
- Ages 2 and older: 1 teacher for every 8 children
- Under age 2: 1 teacher for every 4 children
Ratios may vary by classroom, age group, and program needs.
Yes. Staff complete background checks, required childcare trainings, and ongoing annual training. This includes certifications such as First Aid, CPR, and additional childcare development training.
Parents must notify us if someone new will be picking up their child. Any new pickup person must show valid ID before the child is released.

Parents come to the front door, use the door code, sign in their child, and check in with a staff member. This gives families a chance to share anything important about how their child is doing that day.
We use Brightwheel to communicate with parents, send messages, and share daily photo updates.
Yes. We use Share In My Day cameras so parents can check in and feel connected during the day.
Parents must notify us if someone new will be picking up their child. Any new pickup person must show valid ID before the child is released.

We work to keep our classrooms healthy through daily sanitation and illness procedures. Children with a fever or symptoms of illness may be sent home. After a fever incident, we complete extra deep cleaning to help protect children and staff.
Yes. We provide healthy, fresh food, and menus are shared with parents.
Yes. Please let us know about any allergies or dietary restrictions. Parents are also welcome to provide their own food if preferred.
Families should bring:
- Diapers and wipes, if the child is not potty trained
- Cot sheet and pillow
- Comfort item, such as a stuffed animal
- Change of clothes
- Weather-appropriate clothing
Additional items may vary by age group and location.