What to ask on a nursery visit

A show-round is the best way to find out whether a nursery feels right for your child. Take this list with you. Book a show-round with any nursery on The Nursery Register from its page.

People

• Who will my child's key person be, and how long have they worked here?
• How many staff are in each room, and how do you cover sickness and holidays?
• How do you train your staff, and how often?

Days and fees

• Which days and sessions are available, and do you have a place for my child's age?
• What are the fees, and what's included: meals, nappies, trips?
• Do you take funded hours, and is there any extra charge with them?

Care and learning

• What does a typical day look like?
• How do you handle naps, meals and allergies?
• How will you tell me how my child is getting on?
• How do you support children with additional needs?

Safety

• Who can collect my child, and how do you check?
• What happens if my child is unwell or has an accident?
• When was your last Ofsted inspection, and what did you improve afterwards?

Settling in

• How do settling-in sessions work, and are they free?
• Can I have your welcome pack to read at home?

Trust your instincts

Watch how staff talk to the children, and whether the children seem happy and busy. You know your child best.