Choosing a day nursery

There are different types of day nursery, but the things to consider and questions to ask are broadly the same. Here are some pointers to help you reach a decision that works for you and your child.

  1. Waiting lists - some nurseries have waiting lists, particularly on busy days of the week, so if you have your heart set one one, it’s a good idea to enquire as early as you can.

  2. Ofsted - you can search online to confirm Ofsted registration and read their latest report. At your first meeting, ask them about the report - did they think it was a fair rating? Have they changed anything since?

  3. Holidays - check whether your nursery provides care all year round or term time only. If all year round, ask about seasonal closures such as Bank Holidays and Christmas. Some nurseries will allow you a number of holiday days where you won’t be charged so make sure you ask about your leave policy.

  4. Ask about their staff training, for example, safeguarding or first aid training - are they up to date?

  5. Ask about the ratio of staff to children in the rooms. Also, the ratio of full-time staff to apprentices to ensure there are enough experienced staff in each class.

  6. Ask them what a typical day looks like. Do they have a typical routine for children in terms of indoor/outdoor play, nap time and lunchtime?

  7. Do they provide a record of what your child has been up to? How often?

  8. Pricing - what do they charge per hour? Does the price increase for peak hours? Is there a fine to pay for late collection, and if so, how much?

  9. Childcare vouchers - The government closed the Childcare Vouchers scheme to new entrants on 4th October 2018, but if you were registered before then you can still use these to pay some childminders. Find out if they accept them if you want to use them.

  10. The setting - you and your child should feel comfortable in the nursery. If there’s something you want to discuss with them, it’s better to get it out in the open before you commit. Arrange more than one visit to really get a feel for the setting at different times of day/days of the week.

  11. Food and milk - most nurseries will provide a warm lunch and will support weaning for babies from 6 months old. Some may ask you to provide breakfast and lunch so make sure you ask what their policy is. For children under 1 year of age, you will have to provide breast or formula milk.

  12. Nappies - most nurseries will ask you to provide nappies. Ask if these can be bought in bulk and left on the premises to save you from packing them in your nursery bag every day.

  13. Notice period - ask what the notice period is to terminate your contract.

  14. References - don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations. Local Facebook groups are a good place to start.