When you start looking for a nursery for your children it can be a very exciting but tiring time. What we have done is to make a list of twenty bullet points (in no order) to help you ask the right questions and make notes if you require them so that after your visit you can compare and make the right, informed choice for your children's nursery years. There are many more questions, so this is not a definitive list, just a help. Good Luck!

1. What is your staff turnover?
2. What hours do you open and are there sessions?
3. What is included in the fees? ie breakfast, lunch, snacks, nappies
4. What is the method of payment and do I have to pay for holidays and sickness?
5. What is the age range of the children?
6. What ratio of staff to children is there?
7. Are all staff qualified and how many hold first aid certificates?
8. What are the arrangements for drop off, pick up and parking?
9. Will a particular member of staff be responsible for my child?
10. What is your policy on discipline?
11. What safety features are in the nursery? i.e Smoke detectors, water temperature controlled. How often do you have fire drills?
12. Can I see the registration Certificate? Are you registered with Ofsted and accept Early Years Funding? (three and four year olds only)
13. What kind of activities do you have for the children?. Do you plan activities for children, which cover early learning goals?
14. How do you maintain relationships with parents?
15. How do you help with settling in?
16. Do you have a daily menu? Where do the children eat?
17. What are the cleaning procedures for the nursery?
18. Where do the children sleep?
19. Do you have contracts with parents and what notice has to be given to leave or change attendance requirements?
20. What is the procedure for child collection and safeguards? Ask to inspect the accident book.

Note: Just click on the page and then press print. Make sure to make as many copies as you need.