Critical Issues to consider when choosing a nursery

Finding a nursery for your little one to spend their days is a big undertaking. Luckily, you can get some advice on this topic, in the post below. 

The staff 

Above all else, when choosing a nursery you will want to meet and find out all you can about the staff that works there. After all, it’s imperative that you trust the people that are going to be looking after your child. 

Attending an open day is a great way of doing this, although most nurseries also let you visit before you sign up. Be sure to ask your provider about their safeguarding policies and how they will ensure your child stays safe and healthy when in their care. 

How close it is to your home/work 

Next, when choosing a nursery, it has to work on a practical level. This means it needs to be close enough to your home or place of work that you can drop off or pick your child off without too much of a detour. 

Indeed, while sending your little one to your first choice across town may be appealing, the additional costs you spend on petrol and in time may make it untenable in the long term very quickly.

Be sure to check the route at different times of day as well, as even a little congestion can mean the difference between a viable and a nonviable option. 

Their facilities 

Facilities are a vitally important consideration when you are choosing a nursery as well. Of course, what impresses you most will depend on the type of experience that you will want your child to have. 

For example, if you are prioritising academics, then classrooms, and learning equipment will be the highest on your priority list. However, if you are looking for a place where they will receive a more rounded experience a facility will things like a garden, animals to take care of and a more homely vibe may be best. 

What ages they are equipped to serve 

In addition to the general facilities that a nursery offers, you must check that you have any specific resources needed to care for a particular age range. After all, in the UK, there is no set recommended age for starting nursery, and this means that children from as young as 6 weeks up to 5 years can go. Although, if you are sending a child under 12 months old you will want to make sure that the nursery you choose has the facilities needed to cope with babies. 

Their fees 

Last, of all, it’s important to remember that for the most part sending your child to nursery isn’t free. This means you will not only want to compare the factors above but also enquire as to the fees involved too. 

In particular, be sure to look out for any additional or potentially hidden fees. For example, check that all snacks and meals are included in the price. Also, be sure that there is no late fee if you get held up and can’t make your usual pick-up time. Additionally, if you want to take your child out of nursery school during the school holidays, it’s helpful to check whether your provider will continue to charge or not ( some do and some don’t) as this can be a big factor when it comes to making your choice.