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Choosing the right nursery for your child is important and can be worrying. You want to know that your child is in a happy, safe and clean environment. Here are some important points to consider when looking for a nursery.
  1. Do the children in the nursery look happy and well occupied? Are the children using a variety of equipment and are staff involved with their play? Activities to be discussed are diet, potty training, emergency procedures, discipline and other nursery polices.


  2. Is there a safe and clean outside play area? Is the interior bright, warm, clean, well decorated and welcoming? Is the equipment good quality, clean, safe and appropriate?


  3. What sort of meals are provided and at what time? Is the food fresh or even organic? Can they provide for special diets? Are the menus changed on a regular basis?


  4. What sort of meals are provided and at what time? Is the food fresh or even organic? Can they provide for special diets? Are the menus changed on a regular basis?


  5. Are the staff happy, relaxed, well presented, calm and confident? Ask about the staff to children ratios. Be totally sure that your child is going to get enough adult supervision.


  6. One member of staff should have a first aid certificate and all supervisors are required to have an NVQ Childcare Level 3 or equivalent. Also, are incidents logged?


  7. Always ensure that the nursery you choose is registered with OFSTED (the inspectorate for children and learners in England). You may ask to see copies of the recent OFSTED report highlighting the quality of nursery education and care and the appropriateness of equipment and facilities.


  8. What will the cost be and what does this include? For example do you have to pay extra for nappies, meals etc. Do they accept childcare vouchers? You can find out more about the government Childcare vouchers on the Leapfrog website


  9. When is the nursery open? Check that the nursery opening times fit into your schedule. If not, then you may have to consider additional childcare arrangements.


  10. Speak to friends and family - personal recommendations are an excellent start. If possible look at more than one nursery before making your decision. If you're not happy with any aspect of the nursery, look elsewhere.