Must-Ask Questions Before Choosing a Nursery in the UK

Questions to Ask Nursery

Choosing a nursery in the UK is one of the most important decisions parents can make for their child’s early development. To support parents during visits or calls, this guide offers a comprehensive list of must-ask questions in a simple, readable, and point-based format—grouped by theme for clarity.

1. General Information about the Nursery

  • What are your opening hours and term dates?
  • Is the nursery open year-round or term-time only?
  • What ages do you cater for?
  • How many children are currently enrolled?
  • What are your adult-to-child ratios for each age group?
  • Are you registered with Ofsted? Can I see your latest Ofsted report?
  • What is the nursery’s daily routine like?
  • Is there a waiting list? How far in advance should I register?
  • How flexible are you with sessions and days?
  • Do you offer part-time places?

2. Curriculum and Learning Approach

  • Which curriculum or framework do you follow (e.g., EYFS)?
  • How do you promote learning through play?
  • Do you incorporate outdoor learning or forest school principles?
  • How do you support the specific areas of development in EYFS?
  • Are there opportunities for creative play, such as art and music?
  • Do you provide a structured phonics or early literacy programme?
  • How do you prepare children for school?
  • What topics or themes do you cover throughout the year?
  • Do you track each child’s development? How is progress shared with parents?
  • Are learning activities personalised based on a child’s interests?

3. Staff and Qualifications

  • What are the staff’s qualifications and experience?
  • Do all staff hold a valid DBS check?
  • Are staff trained in Paediatric First Aid and safeguarding?
  • What is your staff turnover rate?
  • Do you provide regular training and professional development?
  • How do staff support children emotionally and socially?
  • Can I meet the key staff who would care for my child?
  • Do you use a key person system? If yes, how does it work?
  • How are staff supervised and supported?
  • How do staff manage challenging behaviour?

4. Environment and Facilities

  • Can I have a tour of the nursery and outdoor spaces?
  • How is the environment made safe and secure for children?
  • Do you have separate areas for different age groups?
  • How often are toys and equipment cleaned and rotated?
  • Is the space inclusive and accessible to children with disabilities?
  • Are there quiet/rest areas for naps or downtime?
  • How do you manage outdoor play during bad weather?
  • What safety procedures are in place for drop-off and collection?
  • Do you have CCTV or controlled access points?
  • Are children allowed to bring personal comfort items (e.g., blankets)?

5. Meals, Snacks and Nutrition

  • Do you provide meals and snacks?
  • Are meals prepared onsite or delivered from a provider?
  • Can I see a sample menu?
  • Do you cater for allergies, intolerances and dietary needs?
  • Is drinking water available throughout the day?
  • How do you encourage healthy eating habits?
  • Can I send food from home if my child has special requirements?
  • How are mealtimes structured?
  • Do staff sit with children at meal times to support social eating?
  • How do you manage choking risks?

6. Nappies, Toileting and Hygiene

  • Do you provide nappies and wipes, or should I bring them?
  • How often are children changed?
  • How do you support potty training?
  • What are your hygiene and sanitisation procedures?
  • How do you support children’s independence with toileting and handwashing?
  • Is there a changing table or toileting area designed for younger children?
  • Do you follow a set toileting routine or respond to individual needs?
  • How do you manage accidents or toilet mishaps?
  • Do you keep parents informed about toileting progress?
  • Are staff trained in infection control and hygiene best practices?

7. Health and Safety

  • What are your illness and exclusion policies?
  • How do you manage fevers or injuries during the day?
  • Are staff trained to administer medication if needed?
  • Do you have a procedure for reporting accidents or incidents?
  • What happens in case of a medical emergency?
  • How do you manage allergies or asthma?
  • Are fire drills conducted regularly?
  • What is your policy on sun safety (e.g., sunscreen, hats)?
  • Do you have a defibrillator on site?
  • How do you ensure toys and learning materials are safe?

8. Settling In and Transitions

  • What is your settling-in process for new children?
  • Can parents stay during the first few sessions?
  • How long does the settling-in period usually take?
  • How do you support children with separation anxiety?
  • Are there transition visits before children move to the next room or age group?
  • How do you support children transitioning to school?
  • Do you offer trial sessions before enrolling?
  • Is the settling-in process personalised to each child?
  • Can I meet my child’s key worker during the settling-in period?
  • Are daily routines shared with parents during the initial weeks?

9. Communication with Parents

  • How often do you communicate with parents?
  • Do you provide daily reports or updates?
  • Do you use a nursery app or communication diary?
  • Are parents informed about their child’s activities and meals?
  • How are concerns or feedback from parents handled?
  • Do you hold parent meetings or open days?
  • Are there opportunities for parents to get involved?
  • Will I be notified immediately if my child is unwell or upset?
  • How do you celebrate children’s achievements with parents?
  • Can I contact my child’s key person during the day?

10. Behaviour and Discipline

  • What is your behaviour management policy?
  • How do you promote positive behaviour?
  • What happens if a child hits or bites another child?
  • How are tantrums or emotional outbursts handled?
  • Do staff receive training in emotional regulation strategies?
  • Are behaviour concerns shared with parents?
  • How do you support children in developing empathy and sharing?
  • Are time-outs or other disciplinary actions used?
  • How is emotional wellbeing supported in group settings?
  • What steps are taken if a child repeatedly displays challenging behaviour?

11. Inclusion and Diversity

  • How do you ensure your nursery is inclusive to all children?
  • Do you celebrate a range of cultural festivals and events?
  • Are staff trained in equality and diversity?
  • How do you support children with additional needs or SEND?
  • Do you have an SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator)?
  • Is the environment accessible for children with mobility challenges?
  • How do you promote acceptance and understanding among peers?
  • Are materials and toys inclusive and diverse?
  • Do you use Makaton, BSL, or other communication aids?
  • Can individual learning plans be created if needed?

12. Fees and Funding

  • What are your current fees and payment terms?
  • Are there any additional costs (e.g., meals, trips)?
  • Do you offer government-funded hours (15 or 30 hours)?
  • Can I mix funded hours with paid sessions?
  • How do you support parents with tax-free childcare or childcare vouchers?
  • Is there a deposit or registration fee?
  • What is your notice period if I want to withdraw my child?
  • Are fees payable during holidays or if my child is ill?
  • Can I pay monthly, termly, or weekly?
  • Is there sibling discount or any promotional offers?

13. Extra Activities and Enrichment

  • Do you offer any extracurricular activities (e.g., yoga, music)?
  • Are these included in the fees or charged separately?
  • Do you take children on local trips or outings?
  • Are visits from community members or professionals (e.g., fire service, dentists) arranged?
  • Do you have seasonal events or performances involving parents?
  • How do you incorporate nature and outdoor learning?
  • Do children participate in gardening, cooking or other hands-on activities?
  • Are there quiet or sensory-based activities for children with different needs?
  • How are birthdays or milestones celebrated?
  • Are learning experiences ever themed around the child’s interests?

14. Parental Feedback and Reputation

  • Can I speak with some current or past parents?
  • Are testimonials or reviews available?
  • How do you gather feedback from parents?
  • Have there been any recent complaints?
  • What changes have been made based on parent feedback?
  • Are you active on social media?
  • Is there a parent group or newsletter?
  • How long has the nursery been running?
  • Has the nursery won any awards or recognitions?
  • Do you have links with local schools or organisations?

15. Red Flags to Look Out For (What Not to Ignore)

  • Staff unable to answer basic questions about policies.
  • Limited or rushed tour, especially avoiding certain areas.
  • Children appearing disengaged or unhappy.
  • Poor hygiene or unpleasant smells.
  • Overcrowded rooms or inadequate supervision.
  • No clear behaviour policy or safeguarding procedure.
  • Lack of enthusiasm or warmth from staff.
  • No evidence of child-led learning or creativity.
  • Outdated toys or broken equipment.
  • Disorganised paperwork, vague fee structures, or inconsistent communication.

Final Thoughts Before Enrolling

  • Do you and your child feel comfortable with the environment?
  • Was the communication honest and open from staff?
  • Did the nursery share similar values to yours?
  • Was the setting clean, well-managed, and welcoming?
  • Were other children engaged and enjoying their time?

About Little Mowgli Nursery, Leyland

At Little Mowgli Nursery, we provide a warm, nurturing environment where children feel safe, valued, and inspired to explore the world around them. As a small, community-focused nursery in the heart of Leyland, we pride ourselves on creating a home-from-home atmosphere where every child is treated as an individual. Our Tigers and Giraffes rooms offer engaging, age-appropriate experiences, while our outdoor area brings the magic of nature into learning. With a strong emphasis on relationships, play-based learning, and discovery, Little Mowgli is a place where every child can thrive and grow with confidence.

Address
2 Tomlinson Rd, Farington Moss
Leyland, PR25 2DY