Expert Insights

What to Look for in a Nursery: A Guide for Parents

Published 7th March 2025 by Alastair

Choosing the right nursery for your child is a pivotal decision that establishes the foundation of their early learning journey.

A nursery is not just a childcare option – it is often your child’s first experience in a structured environment with peers, making it crucial to find one where they will feel happy, safe, and nurtured. With so many factors to consider, you may wonder exactly what to look for in a nursery. Here, we draw on expert insights (including Ivy Education’s early years consultants) and top parent resources to guide you step by step. From safety measures and staff qualifications to that all-important ‘gut feeling’, here are the key considerations and how to make your final decision.

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Why Choosing the Right Nursery Matters

Enrolling your child in a high-quality nursery can benefit them socially, emotionally, and academically. It is not only about convenience – it is about finding a place that feels like a home away from home while also offering enriching educational experiences. According to our nursery experts, “a good nursery is like an extension of home, but with an additional learning component,” meaning a safe, secure environment combined with clear educational objectives for each child. The ideal nursery provides warmth, comfort, and active support for your child’s development.

It is important not to get carried away by the idea of so-called ‘feeder’ nurseries that might claim to offer direct pathways to certain primary schools. As Ivy Education consultant Wendy Challen points out, no nursery can guarantee admission to a specific school. The focus should be on the present quality of care, how well the nursery meets your child’s immediate needs, and how they foster growth. If your child is happy and thriving, they are more likely to develop a positive attitude towards education in their later years. Choosing a nursery that ‘feels right’ can lead to long-term advantages, so trust your judgement as you explore the options.

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Starting Your Search: Research and Recommendations

When embarking on the search, begin by compiling a shortlist of local nurseries using reliable sources: your local authority’s Family Information Service, word-of-mouth recommendations from other parents, and online platforms.

Many parents start by checking community forums, asking friends which nurseries they recommend, or reading independent reviews on sites like Daynurseries.co.uk. It is also helpful to consult official inspection reports – in the UK, that typically means checking if a nursery is registered with Ofsted and reading its Ofsted rating and report. These can provide a snapshot of areas such as care quality, safety standards, and child development initiatives.

Keep practical factors in mind as well: location (proximity to home or work), opening hours that suit your schedule, availability of places, and cost. You might create a simple checklist of essential features, such as extended hours or particular budget constraints, to narrow your search. Since many popular nurseries have waiting lists, it is wise to start early and contact your favourites about space availability and arranging visits.

Once you have whittled down a shortlist, visit the nurseries in person. While websites and brochures can be informative, there is no substitute for walking through the doors yourself. Most nurseries are happy to offer a tour or an open day for prospective families. One parenting resource reminds us that choosing a nursery is not a decision you make purely from a website; actually stepping inside and witnessing the environment helps you gather impressions beyond any promotional materials.

"Finding the right nursery can be competitive, with many having long waiting lists. Our Nursery Consultancy Services can help you navigate this process and secure the best place for your child.

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Different Styles of UK Nurseries

When choosing a nursery, it’s helpful to understand the different styles, as each follows a slightly different approach to early childhood education. While all registered nurseries adhere to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, the way they implement it can vary significantly:

Traditional EYFS-Based Nurseries – These nurseries follow the national EYFS curriculum, offering a mix of structured learning and play-based activities. They focus on early literacy, numeracy, and social development, balancing teacher-led and child-led experiences.

Montessori Nurseries – Based on the Montessori philosophy, these nurseries encourage independent, hands-on learning with carefully designed materials. Children are given freedom within a structured environment to develop at their own pace, often with mixed-age classrooms that promote peer learning.

Steiner (Waldorf) Nurseries – Steiner nurseries emphasise creativity, imagination, and holistic development. There is a strong focus on storytelling, outdoor play, and artistic activities, with formal academics introduced at a later stage. These nurseries avoid screens and encourage natural, rhythmic daily routines.

Reggio Emilia Nurseries – Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, these nurseries prioritise child-led learning, collaborative play, and creative expression. The environment is designed as a “third teacher,” filled with engaging materials that encourage exploration and problem-solving.

Forest School Nurseries – These nurseries take an outdoor-focused approach, with children spending most of their time in nature, engaging in hands-on learning through play in forests, parks, or outdoor classrooms. The emphasis is on resilience, confidence, and a deep connection with the natural world.

Bilingual or Language-Focused Nurseries – Some nurseries incorporate a second language into their daily activities, either through immersion or structured lessons, helping children develop early language skills in a bilingual setting.

Each style offers unique benefits, so it’s worth considering which approach best aligns with your child’s personality and learning style. Visiting different nurseries and observing how children interact within each setting can help you decide which environment will be the best fit for your child.

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First Impressions and the “Feel” of the Nursery

When you tour a nursery, pay attention to your first impressions. Often, your intuition (or “gut feeling”) will tell you a lot. Notice the overall atmosphere: Is the environment welcoming and child-friendly? Do staff greet you and your child warmly? Does the place feel bright, cheerful, and calm? Trust those initial reactions. Many experienced parents say that beyond all the checklists and questions. If you sense a warm, positive vibe – or conversely, an unsettling one – don’t ignore it.

Also observe how staff and children interact during your visit. Are the children there engaged in activities and seeming content? Do the caregivers appear attentive, patient and genuinely interested in the kids? A quick scan of the room can speak volumes: ideally you’ll see busy but happy little ones and teachers down at the children’s level, playing or talking with them. If you visit during activity time, do the kids look well-stimulated and involved, rather than bored or upset? If it’s pickup time, do children run to give caregivers a hug goodbye? These small moments help reveal if the nursery has a nurturing, positive culture.

Parents on community forums often recall choosing a nursery because it “just felt right.” One parent noted that it was “homely, happy, and clean, and the staff’s answers to my questions gave me confidence.” Another reported following her ‘gut feeling’ because the place had a comfortable ambience, the children looked content, and the staff were friendly. Visiting multiple nurseries allows you to compare intangible factors like atmosphere and staff warmth, helping you find the environment that resonates with you.

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Safety, Cleanliness, and Licensing

Safety should be your highest priority. A reputable nursery will have robust procedures in place to protect children at all times. During a tour, look for clear security measures (for example, buzzer or keypad systems) and childproofed spaces. Ensure radiators are safely covered, cleaning supplies are locked away, and the environment is clean and well-maintained. Thorough cleanliness signifies strong hygiene practices, which is especially important when children are prone to catching and spreading germs.

All nurseries in the UK that care for young children must be registered with the correct regulatory body (Ofsted in England) and meet legal requirements concerning staff-to-child ratios. These ratios typically depend on the age of the children, for example 1:3 for under-2s, 1:4 for 2-year-olds, and 1:8 for 3- to 5-year-olds (slightly different ratios apply if there is a qualified teacher present). Quality nurseries often surpass the minimum standards, ensuring plenty of individual attention. Confirm there are always enough staff on hand, and ask about their policy if someone is ill.

You should also check that staff have training in paediatric first aid, and don’t hesitate to ask about safeguarding protocols, including background checks. Inspect the physical environment for wear and tear: is the outdoor equipment in good condition? Are there cushioned surfaces under climbing frames? Is the outdoor space fully enclosed? A well-kept playground or garden indicates that the nursery cares about both safety and the children’s enjoyment.

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Staff Qualifications and Values

The nursery staff are the people you will be entrusting with your child, so their professionalism and attitude are pivotal. Observing dedicated, caring staff who have appropriate qualifications (such as NVQ Level 3 in childcare, or higher) should give you confidence. It also helps to find out how long staff members have been at the nursery. A high turnover can indicate workplace issues, while a stable team suggests contented staff and consistent care for the children.

Most reputable nurseries employ a ‘key worker’ system, where each child is assigned a specific staff member who takes particular responsibility for their wellbeing, progress tracking, and as the main liaison with parents. Ask about key workers, settling-in procedures, and how staff handle day-to-day activities like nappy changes, discipline, or disputes over toys. Ivy Education advises that genuine passion is equally as important as formal training – ideally, you want staff who truly love working with children and have a clear educational vision led by strong management.

Don’t shy away from questions about staff policies, background checks, or continuing professional development. A nursery should be proud to discuss the qualifications and experience of its employees. If the team appear enthusiastic and well-qualified, and you sense a positive culture, it is a strong sign that the nursery genuinely values children’s development.

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Atmosphere and Environment: Happy, Engaged Children

Try to see the environment from your child’s perspective. Is it a place where you can imagine them being comfortable and excited to explore? The setting does not need to be brand new, but it should be organised, stimulating, and child-oriented.

Look for signs of ongoing learning and fun, such as children’s artwork on the walls, interactive displays, and a variety of toys at child height. Engaging areas for imaginative play, puzzle-solving, and reading corners are excellent indicators. Outdoor play is also vital, so ask about how often children go outside and what kind of outdoor activities are offered. A safe, enclosed outdoor area with age-appropriate equipment or space to run around shows the nursery values children’s physical development.

When children are present, observe whether they appear absorbed in painting, building, singing, or other activities. Do they move confidently around the space? One guide suggests looking for “busy, but relaxed, children who seem happy and purposeful.” Body language can be more revealing than anything else. Consider the nursery’s inclusivity as well: does it acknowledge and celebrate diverse backgrounds, abilities, and family structures? A welcoming, inclusive environment helps children feel at home.

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Learning Through Play: Curriculum and Daily Activities

While a nursery is not a formal school, a high-quality setting will have a carefully planned programme of activities to encourage children’s development. In the UK, all registered early years providers adhere to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, which promotes language, social skills, physical development, and early numeracy through play-based learning. However, individual nurseries may emphasise different educational philosophies, such as Montessori or Steiner.

Montessori nurseries champion independent, hands-on exploration, often with mixed-age classes, aiming to nurture each child’s overall personality and their respect for the environment. Steiner nurseries typically highlight creative play and imagination, delaying academic work (like reading and writing) until about six years old. Some others operate as forest schools, spending a large proportion of time outdoors. Think about whether a particular philosophy resonates with your child’s personality, or if a more traditional, general approach suits them better.

Ask about the typical daily routine. A balanced structure often includes group story or singing sessions, outdoor time, child-led play, and creative activities such as painting or crafting. Children need quiet moments too, so find out if there is a calm space for reading or napping. High-quality nurseries should have a predictable routine but also cater to individual needs and interests. Ivy Education notes that top nurseries have clear learning outcomes and observe each child to tailor the experience accordingly.

You might also ask about any special sessions: some nurseries bring in specialists to teach music, dance, or foreign languages on certain days. While these can be appealing, the most important factor is the daily atmosphere of rich, play-based learning. If children are encouraged to explore, create, and interact, they are likely to go home beaming with excitement, barely realising they have been learning vital new skills.

Not sure which nursery approach suits your child best? Whether it’s Montessori, Reggio Emilia, or a traditional EYFS setting, our consultants can help match your child’s learning style to the right nursery. Book a consultation today.

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Nutrition and Care: Food, Naps, and Wellbeing

Nurseries differ in how they manage mealtimes, so check whether they provide meals and snacks or require a packed lunch. If they cater on-site, consider asking to see a menu. Does it offer fresh fruit, vegetables, and balanced meals rather than too many sugary or processed options? If your child has allergies or dietary restrictions (e.g. a vegetarian or halal diet), see how the nursery accommodates these. A confident, clear response is reassuring.

If you have a baby or toddler, ask about weaning, nappy policies, and whether you need to supply your own nappies and wipes. Will the nursery support any breastfeeding arrangement you prefer? For children who still nap, find out whether there is a dedicated, cosy space and whether the staff are flexible if your child’s nap pattern is unique.

Also ask about the procedure if a child becomes ill or injured. Are staff trained in first aid? Will they contact you if they have any concerns? Although minor ailments are inevitable, a nursery should have robust policies on when to send children home and how to safeguard others if one child is contagious. Essentially, you want to know that your child’s health, comfort, and wellbeing are top priorities.

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Communication and Partnership with Parents

Although the nursery staff care for your child during the day, you remain an essential partner in their development. High-quality nurseries cultivate open communication channels with parents. Do they provide a brief handover or daily diary? Is there an app or email system to share photos and updates about your child’s activities?

Ask whether the nursery holds scheduled parent-teacher meetings or provides progress reports. These allow for more in-depth discussions about your child’s social, emotional, and cognitive development. Also find out how approachable the staff are for everyday queries. Can you telephone if you have concerns? How do they handle a situation if your child seems distressed?

Check their settling-in policy: many nurseries offer short ‘settling’ sessions where parents can stay with their child initially, gradually easing them into the new environment. This transition can make a world of difference for a child – and for your own peace of mind.

Enquire about practicalities at drop-off and pick-up times too. If someone else needs to collect your child, do they require identification or a password? What happens if you are running late? A nursery that confidently addresses these questions will reassure you of their professionalism and willingness to work alongside parents. Additionally, consider whether the nursery organises events for parents, such as seasonal fairs or coffee mornings, which can encourage a sense of community.

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Practical Considerations

While the quality of care is paramount, daily logistics also play a role in your decision. Confirm the nursery’s hours of operation and holiday schedule. Do these align with your work or other responsibilities? Some may offer early drop-offs or late pick-ups, possibly at an extra cost. Also, check whether they accept part-time placements or if they only offer full-time spots.

Costs can vary widely, so request a clear fee structure. Ask what is included in the tuition (meals, snacks, nappies, wipes) and whether there are extra charges for certain activities. Also check their policy for holidays or sick days – do you pay regardless of attendance? If you qualify for government funding (such as the 15 or 30 hours of free childcare for three- and four-year-olds), does the nursery accept it, and how does it factor into their billing?

Location is another aspect. Is it convenient for your commute or near your home? If you walk with a pushchair, does the nursery have somewhere to store it? Some parents also check if the nursery allows ad-hoc extra sessions or day swaps, in case of emergencies. Lastly, references or parent reviews can provide invaluable insights, so ask the nursery if you can speak to families currently enrolled. Reading Ofsted reports and local parenting forums can also help you spot any recurring themes or potential red flags.

If you are considering a selective school for your child, our 4+ group assessments provide valuable insights into their school readiness and areas for development. Learn more about how we can support your child’s transition to primary school

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Trust Your Instincts (and Your Child’s)

After exploring all the practical and quality-based considerations – from safety measures and staff qualifications to curriculum style and communication practices – you may find one nursery emerges as the clear favourite. Alternatively, you might feel torn between two seemingly excellent options. At this stage, trust your instincts as a parent.

Sometimes, despite ticks in every box, you might sense something is not quite right. As Ivy Education advises, “If you have reservations, never dismiss them – you must feel comfortable in the surroundings that will look after your child.” In other words, your gut feeling matters. Consider taking your child along for a brief visit, especially if they can give you clues about how at ease they feel in the setting.

Remember, “what to look for in a nursery” is not purely a checklist; it is also about understanding your child’s personality and needs. One nursery might have modern, shiny facilities but feel overly formal for your lively, imaginative toddler. Another may be less glossy but radiate warmth, kindness, and a sense of belonging. Parents on forums often describe choosing a nursery that simply ‘clicked’ because of the warm staff, the happy children, or that intangible sense of ‘rightness.’

Child-focused charities have interviewed children themselves to see what they value. Their answers centre on having friends, enjoyable activities, regular mealtimes, and feeling safe and cared for – it is surprisingly straightforward and reminds us to view things from a child’s perspective.

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Making the Final Decision

By now, you have visited nurseries, done your research, and perhaps talked it over with family. Evaluate everything together. If you need a final push, compare practical pros and cons or think about which setting your child would flourish in most. Once you decide, fill out the necessary enrolment forms and consider paying any deposit to secure your child’s place. Familiarise yourself with the parent handbook or contract so you know the policies on notice periods, payment schedules, or closures.

Leading up to the start date, help your child become comfortable with the idea of nursery. You might walk past it occasionally, pointing it out as their ‘new school’, or talk in positive terms about new friends and fun activities. Some parents find it helpful to arrange a few extra visits. These can ease anxieties and help children settle more smoothly.

Remember, you do not have to tackle this alone. If you still feel uncertain, consider seeking help from an educational consultant like Ivy Education, who specialise in guiding families through nursery selections, matching children’s personalities and needs with the right environment. Their professional insights can bring reassurance if you are short on time or feeling overwhelmed.

Trust that with thoughtful research, direct observation, and a dash of intuition, you will find a nursery that feels just right. Soon enough, your child will come home with excited stories of their day, new songs they have learnt, and artwork to display on the fridge – a sure sign that your decision has put them on a happy path for their educational journey.

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FAQs

It’s best to start researching nurseries at least 6–12 months before you need a place, as many popular nurseries have waiting lists. Some parents begin even earlier, particularly if they require specific days or term-time-only places, or if the nursery is particularly competitive and requires an assessment.

There are various types of nurseries, including state-funded nursery schools, private nurseries, workplace nurseries, and community playgroups. Additionally, some nurseries follow specific educational philosophies such as Montessori, Steiner, Reggio Emilia, or Forest School approaches.

Pay attention to the cleanliness and safety of the environment, the interactions between staff and children, and whether the nursery feels welcoming and stimulating. Observe the atmosphere, ask about staff qualifications, and find out how daily routines are structured.

The UK has regulated staff-to-child ratios depending on the age group:

1:3 for children under 2 years
1:4 for children aged 2 years
1:8 for children aged 3-5 years (or 1:13 if a qualified teacher is present)

You can check a nursery’s Ofsted rating and inspection report on the Ofsted website. It’s also useful to ask other parents for recommendations and read online reviews on platforms such as Daynurseries.co.uk.

he EYFS is a government framework that sets standards for the learning, development, and care of children from birth to five years old. All registered nurseries in the UK follow the EYFS, though some may incorporate additional educational philosophies.

A good nursery will focus on developing social skills, communication, independence, and early numeracy and literacy skills. Many nurseries also encourage activities such as self-care routines (putting on coats, tidying up) to help children transition smoothly into primary school.

For children applying to competitive independent schools, it’s also worth considering 4+ group assessments, which are often used to assess school readiness. These assessments evaluate a child’s cognitive, social, and fine motor skills, as well as their ability to follow instructions and interact with peers. At Ivy Education, we offer expert guidance and group assessments to help parents understand their child’s strengths and prepare them for this important milestone.

Yes, most nurseries welcome prospective parents for visits. You can usually book a tour, attend an open day, or arrange a trial session to see how your child interacts with the environment.

Most nurseries offer a settling-in period where children attend shorter sessions to gradually adjust. If your child is struggling, communicate with staff about ways to ease the transition, such as bringing a comfort item from home or staying for part of the session initially.

This varies by nursery. Some provide all meals and snacks, while others require parents to send packed lunches. Check whether the meals are freshly prepared, if they cater to dietary requirements, and whether snacks are healthy and balanced.

Nurseries typically have a policy that requires children with contagious illnesses (such as vomiting, fever, or chickenpox) to stay home for a set period. If your child becomes unwell during the day, the nursery will contact you to arrange collection.

Costs vary depending on the location, nursery type, and hours of attendance. In England, three- and four-year-olds are eligible for 15-30 hours of free nursery education per week, depending on parental income and working status. Some two-year-olds may also qualify for free childcare.

Some nurseries offer full-time and part-time places, while others may have fixed schedules. If you need flexibility, ask whether they provide ad-hoc sessions or extended hours.

Key questions include:

What is the staff-to-child ratio?
What is the nursery’s educational philosophy?
How do you handle behaviour and discipline?
How do you communicate with parents?
What are your safeguarding policies?
Can I see your most recent Ofsted report?

Yes, if a nursery doesn’t feel like the right fit, you can move your child to a different setting. However, check the notice period in your contract before making any changes.

Visit multiple nurseries, observe the atmosphere, ask key questions, and trust your instincts. Choose the setting where your child seems most comfortable and where you feel confident in the staff and their approach.