How to choose a childcare centre in Malta
A practical order to work in, from the things that rule centres out fast to the things you can only judge by visiting.
Most parents start by searching and end up overwhelmed. It's easier if you work in order — rule centres out on the practical things first, then visit the two or three that survive.
1. Location, honestly assessed
Not "near home" but on the route you actually travel. A centre ten minutes the wrong way costs you twenty minutes twice a day, every day, usually with a tired child in the back.
2. Free Childcare Scheme status
For most working and studying parents this is close to a yes/no gate, because it decides whether you pay for the hours at all. How the scheme works. Every listing here shows scheme status, with the date we checked it.
3. Hours that fit your actual working day
Ask about the earliest drop-off and the latest pick-up, not the advertised hours — and what happens if you're late. This is the single most common reason parents move their child.
4. Do they have a place, for your child's age, when you need it
Availability is by age group, not by centre. A centre can be full for under-ones and open for two-year-olds. Ask about the waiting list, and ask early — places move around the October and February intakes.
5. Then visit
Everything above can be checked from a screen. These can't:
- What does the room sound like? Content noise is a good sign; unusual quiet isn't.
- Do staff go down to the children's level to speak to them?
- Ask who your child's key carer would be, and meet them.
- How long have the staff been there? High turnover is the thing parents most regret ignoring.
- Is there outdoor or open space, and how often is it used?
- How will they tell you about your child's day?
6. Ask about money before you commit
The scheme covers your hours, not the registration fee or food. What you actually pay.
Last updated 23 Aug 2026. childcare.mt is independent and not affiliated with any government body.