When you visit a nursery it is important to trust your instinct and vital to see how your own child reacts to the environment. You may have been recommended the nursery (by far the best introduction), seen an advert or sign, found the nursery from Social Services listings, the Internet or Yellow Pages, the list is endless. There are choices, so take your time.

Try to plan reasonably in advance so that the choice of nursery is yours and not what is left. Listed below (again not in any order) are a few points to take notice of but always remember at the end of the day it is your decision as a parent and the reaction of your child, which is important so trust that judgement.

1. Look for security, fire exits, fire safety notices and equipment check dates. Plug sockets all have covers. Baby gates in place where necessary.
2. How does your child react to the nursery?
3. How does your child react to the staff?
4. Does your child cling to your side?
5. Are you made to feel welcome and your child given attention?
6. Are staff talking with the children and at their height level?
7. What is the condition of the toilet area, kitchen and the nursery generally? (Don't forget though that nurseries are busy, active places)
8. Do staff look as though they have reasonable personal standards?
9. Are there examples of children's work on the walls and clearly done by the children?
10. Do the children attending the nursery look happy?
11. Are there any children sitting on their own unattended?
12. Is the air reasonably clear of odors and no children obviously in need changing?
13. If there is a garden or outside area is it secure and is the equipment in good order?
14. Is there a wide range of toys and equipment? Do toys look old and broken?
15. Look for activity plans on the walls ie home corner, messy play, singing.
16. All children's chairs, tables, toilets. sinks and general equipment should be child height.
17. Are there enough staff present with the children?
18. Is there any obvious hazard that is present? ie scissors, hot drinks, broken equipment.
19. Does the nursery ensure that you have all information about them including prices and registration procedures?
20. Is there a general notice and information board?