choosing a nursery
Shipley Nursery
Daisy Hill Nursery
How to Choose a Nursery for Your Child
Selecting the right nursery for your child is an important decision that can feel overwhelming. Whether your child is just starting their nursery journey or transitioning to a new setting, knowing what to look for and what questions to ask can help make the process easier for your family.
Key Questions to Ask
When evaluating a nursery, asking the right questions can provide valuable insights into their practices and help the nursery understand your child’s needs. Here are some essential questions to consider:
- Are all staff members DBS checked?
- What are the staff-to-child ratios in each room?
- How does the nursery maintain consistent quality across its settings?
- In what ways does the nursery support my child’s learning and development?
- How does the nursery track my child’s progress and communicate it to parents?
- What safety procedures are in place to ensure my child’s well-being?
- How do you encourage my child’s interests and creativity?
- What preparations are made for my child’s transition to primary school?
- How can I check on my child throughout the day while at nursery?
- Do you follow routines similar to those my child has at home?
- What outdoor activities and provisions are available, and how often will my child spend time outside?
- What support do you provide for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)?
- What are your opening hours, and do you offer early drop-offs or late pickups?
Consider Your Needs
Finding a nursery that meets your family’s needs is just as important as finding one that suits your child’s requirements. One major factor to consider is the location of the nursery. Many parents prefer a nursery close to their home or workplace for convenience, while others may choose a location near family members for easier pickup arrangements.
At Little Hearts Nursery, we have two locations: Shipley Nursery and Daisy Hill Nursery, making it easier for you to find a setting that fits your routine.
Check Ratings and Reviews
You want the best for your child, so reviewing previous Ofsted reports and parental feedback can provide a non-biased perspective on a nursery’s quality. Little Hearts Nurseries are proud to strive for outstanding Ofsted ratings across all our settings.
Peer reviews are also valuable. A good nursery actively seeks feedback from parents and uses it to improve. At Little Hearts, we conduct regular parent surveys to ensure we are meeting the needs of families and enhancing their experiences.
Evaluate the Environment
An effective nursery environment supports children’s play, exploration, and learning. When you visit, observe the surroundings: Are children engaged in creative, imaginative play with natural materials, or are they solely using conventional toys? At Little Hearts, we regularly enhance our indoor and outdoor spaces to reflect children’s interests and developmental needs.
Outdoor Opportunities
Given the fast pace of modern life, it’s essential that children have daily opportunities to engage with the outdoors at their own pace. During your visit, take time to explore the outdoor areas. Look for rich sensory experiences and attentive staff who are dressed appropriately for all weather conditions.
Trust Your Instincts
Finally, and most importantly, trust your instincts. Your parental intuition is a powerful tool for gauging the sincerity and suitability of a nursery. You know your child best, so listen to your gut feeling about the environment and the people involved.
Choosing the right nursery is a significant step in your child’s early education journey. At Little Hearts Nursery, we are committed to providing a nurturing and engaging environment where every child can thrive. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a visit, please reach out to us!