Choosing a nursery
Questions to ask on a nursery visit
A down-to-earth checklist for a first nursery visit. Tick things off as you go.
The short version
- Notice how it feels as well as how it looks.
- Meet the person who'd care for your child.
- Get the practical details in writing.
Start with how it feels
Meet your child's key person
Ask them
- How is a key person chosen?
- How will they get to know my child?
- How will you share updates with me?
- Who steps in when they're away?
Talk through a normal day
Ask them
- What are meals and naps like?
- How much time is spent outside?
- What's the balance of free play and planned activities?
- How can routines adapt for my child?
Get the details in writing
Before you decide
Ask them
- How do you help children settle in?
- How do you manage changes in staff?
- How do you support additional needs?
- Can we meet the team again?
Keep reading
Choosing a nursery, 6 min readWhat to look for in a nurseryHow to compare nurseries before you visit, what to watch for when you're there, and the questions worth asking.
Choosing a nursery, 5 min readHow to read a nursery's Ofsted reportWhat Ofsted's grades mean, how report cards changed in November 2025 and what to look for in a nursery's report.
Choosing a nursery, 3 min readNursery schools and day nurseries: what's the difference?How day nurseries, nursery schools, school nursery classes and pre-schools differ on hours, ages and staffing.