Choosing a nursery is a big decision because it combines your child’s early learning and care with the practical reality of family life. The best choice is rarely just the nursery with the closest postcode or the longest opening hours.

1. Location and the daily journey

Think about the full door-to-door journey at drop-off and collection time. A setting that looks close on a map can be awkward at rush hour.

2. Opening hours

Check normal hours, early starts, late collection, holiday arrangements and how sessions are booked. If your work pattern changes, ask how flexible the nursery can be.

3. Staff and key-person arrangements

Ask how children are allocated a key person, how staff communicate with parents and what happens when a familiar member of staff is away.

4. Inspection and safeguarding

Look at the setting’s current inspection information and ask how safeguarding, illness, collection arrangements and incidents are managed. Official inspection information is useful, but it should sit alongside your own visit and questions.

5. Fees and funding

Ask for the complete fee structure rather than relying on a headline price. Confirm how funded hours work and which additional charges may apply.

6. Food, sleep and routines

For younger children, practical routines matter. Ask about meals, allergies, naps, outdoor time and how individual routines are handled.

7. Learning and play

Look for a balance of child-led play, adult interaction, stories, physical activity, creative experiences and opportunities to build independence.

8. Outdoor space

Ask how often children use outdoor areas and what happens when the weather is poor.

9. Communication with parents

Find out how you receive updates about meals, naps, learning, incidents and progress. Good communication can make the transition into nursery much easier.

10. Trust your visit

Visit where possible. Notice whether children appear settled, whether adults know the children well and whether staff are willing to answer detailed questions.

Once you have a shortlist, EduCompare can help you compare settings, websites and available contact information in one place.