Nursery

It really depends on what’s important to you. Our nursery is an old school house (so looks like a big house to be fair) Things important to me were. Staff to kid ratios Outside space and how much time they spend outside Do they follow a curriculum? Where is food prepared, can we see a menu? We wanted an on site chef Security - can anyone just walk in? Illness policies - will they give antibiotics etc, Allergies - what precautions are taken How do they keep parents up today late with day to day activities but also any developmental concerns The above is important but also you massively just get a ‘feeling’ about what one is right for you. I’d recommend seeing a few so you can compare

That can be normal, I’ve been to view a nursery that was in a big old house, one that was a custom built building and the one that we went for was in a building that used to be a doctors, so I wouldn’t let that put you off. I would ask about the structure of the day, the staff ratios and how they keep you updated. But a lot of what you have to go off is vibes, I visited one that I just didn’t like the feel of, the children seemed bored and quiet and they had a large ‘interactive’ area which was just a big TV screen which put me off. Also make sure you are really clear about their fees and funding policies, as they all vary so much. I fell in love with a nursery before I saw their ‘top up’ fees if using the ‘free’ hours.

Sounds like a mixed experience! I can see how it might feel a bit odd if you’re not used to it. Some nurseries do operate out of houses or converted homes, so it’s not necessarily a red flag. I’d say it’s really about the vibe—how comfortable did you feel when you walked in? Are the staff warm and welcoming? Check if they’re following proper safety protocols (like childproofing, cleanliness, and hygiene), and if there’s a good mix of activities. Also, talk to the staff about their experiences, and make sure the child-to-staff ratio feels right. Trust your gut feeling, too. I looked around a few nurseries for my son, and only one gave me a positive vibe and gut-feeling. I made the best decision by sending him there.