Choosing a nursery school for your child is one of the most important decisions you will make in their early years. For many families, it’s the first time their child will spend regular time away from home, so it’s completely natural to feel both excited and anxious. The right nursery can help your child feel safe, confident and curious, laying strong foundations for their learning and wellbeing.
While every family’s needs are different, there are some key considerations that can help guide your decision and ensure you find a nursery that feels right for both you and your child.
Every child is unique. Some children thrive in busy, energetic environments, while others benefit from quieter, more structured settings. When looking at nurseries, think about your child’s personality, routine and any specific needs they may have.
Consider how the nursery supports children who are shy, how they manage transitions, and whether they can accommodate additional needs such as allergies, speech development or extra learning support. A good nursery should be willing to talk openly about how they tailor care to each child.
The people caring for your child matter just as much as the setting itself. Warm, attentive and well-qualified staff help children feel secure and valued. Ask about staff qualifications, training and experience, but also pay attention to how staff interact with the children during your visit.
Many nurseries operate a key person system, where one staff member takes particular responsibility for your child’s care and development. This can be especially important in helping children settle and build trusting relationships.
Nurseries may follow different learning approaches, but in the UK all registered settings are guided by the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Ask how the nursery brings this framework to life on a daily basis.
Look for a balance between structured activities and child-led play. Play is central to early learning, helping children develop social skills, language, problem-solving and confidence. A good nursery will explain how play supports learning, rather than focusing solely on worksheets or formal teaching.
The physical environment plays a big role in your child’s experience. Clean, safe and welcoming spaces help children feel comfortable and engaged. When visiting, notice whether rooms are bright, well organised and set up to encourage exploration.
Outdoor space is also important. Access to outdoor play supports physical development, independence and a connection with nature. Ask how often children go outside and what kind of activities they take part in.
Strong communication between parents and nursery staff helps build trust and ensures consistency between home and nursery. Ask how the nursery keeps parents informed about their child’s day, progress and milestones.
Many nurseries use daily handovers, online apps or regular newsletters to share updates. It’s also worth asking how they handle questions or concerns and whether parents are encouraged to be involved in nursery life.
Your child’s safety and wellbeing should always be a top priority. Ask about safeguarding procedures, first aid training and how the nursery manages illness, accidents and emergencies.
It’s also helpful to understand their approach to emotional wellbeing, behaviour management and helping children develop positive relationships. A nurturing environment should support children’s feelings as well as their learning.
Finally, practical factors such as location, opening hours, session availability and cost will play a role in your decision. Think about what works realistically for your family’s routine and commitments.
While budget is important, it’s worth considering overall value rather than cost alone. A nursery that offers a supportive, enriching environment can make a meaningful difference to your child’s early years.
After researching, visiting and asking questions, trust your instincts. The right nursery should feel welcoming, reassuring and aligned with your values as a parent. If you can picture your child feeling happy, settled and supported there, that’s often the best sign you’ve made the right choice.
Choosing a nursery is a big step, but with careful consideration and the right information, you can feel confident that you’re giving your child the best possible start.