Choosing a nursery is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make in your child’s early years. Websites and brochures can tell you a lot, but nothing replaces walking through the door and seeing a setting for yourself. A visit lets you feel the atmosphere, meet the people who would care for your child and ask the questions that matter to your family.
It’s easy to get swept up in the moment, though, and come away realising you forgot to ask about something important. That’s why we’ve put together this practical checklist. Take it with you on your visits, to Kiddiwinks or anywhere else and you’ll leave with a clear picture of whether a nursery is the right fit.
Before your visit
A little preparation helps you make the most of your time at each nursery.
- Read the latest Ofsted report. Every registered nursery in England is inspected by Ofsted, and reports are free to read online. Note any strengths or areas for improvement you’d like to ask about.
- Check the practicalities. Opening hours, location, fees, funded hours and availability for your start date can rule a setting in or out before you visit.
- Book a visit during a normal session. Seeing the nursery in full swing, with children playing and staff at work, tells you far more than an empty room.
- Bring your child if you can. Watching how staff greet and engage with your little one is one of the most revealing parts of any visit.
- Write down your questions. Jot down anything specific to your child, such as allergies, sleep routines or additional needs.
The nursery visit checklist
First impressions
- Were you greeted warmly and made to feel welcome?
- Is the entrance secure, with visitors signed in and doors controlled?
- Does the nursery feel bright, calm and cheerful rather than chaotic or too quiet?
- Are children’s artwork and photos on display?
The children
- Do the children seem happy, settled and absorbed in what they’re doing?
- Are they confident to approach staff for help or a cuddle?
- Is there a healthy buzz of chatter, laughter and play?
The staff
- Are practitioners down at the children’s level, talking, listening and playing?
- Do they speak to children kindly and patiently, even when managing behaviour?
- Are there enough adults in each room for children to get real attention?
- Do staff seem happy in their work and well supported by managers?
The environment
- Is the nursery clean, well maintained and free of obvious hazards?
- Are toys and resources varied, in good condition and within children’s reach?
- Are there cosy, quiet spaces for rest and reading as well as active areas?
- Is there a safe outdoor area, and do children use it every day in all weathers?
- Are nappy changing, toilet and sleep areas hygienic and appropriate for each age group?
Learning and development
- Can staff explain how they follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)?
- Is learning led by play, with activities matched to each child’s interests and stage?
- How do they track progress, and how will you hear about it?
Food and routines
- Are meals freshly prepared, balanced and varied? Ask to see a menu.
- How are allergies and dietary needs managed?
- How do they handle naps, and can they follow your child’s routine from home?
Safety and wellbeing
- Who is the designated safeguarding lead?
- Are staff trained in paediatric first aid?
- What happens if a child is unwell, has an accident or needs medicine?
Key questions to ask the manager
What you see on a visit matters, but so do the answers to a few direct questions:
- How long have your staff worked here, and what qualifications do they hold?
- Will my child have a key person, and how will they get to know us?
- How does settling in work, and how flexible is it?
- How will you keep me updated on my child’s day? Do you use an app, a diary or daily chats at pick-up?
- How do you support children with additional needs or English as an additional language?
- What is included in the fees, and are there any extra charges?
- What are your policies on sickness, late collection and holidays?
A good nursery will welcome your questions and answer them openly. If anything feels vague or rushed, that’s worth noting.
Trust your Instincts
Checklists are useful, but your gut feeling counts too. Picture your child in that room every day. Could you hand them over at the door and head off to work with peace of mind? If the answer is yes, you may well have found the one. If you’re unsure, it’s perfectly fine to ask for a second visit before you decide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many nurseries should I visit? Most parents find that visiting two or three nurseries gives them enough to compare without feeling overwhelmed. Seeing more than one helps you notice what makes a setting stand out.
How long does a nursery visit usually take? Allow 30 minutes to an hour. That gives you time to tour the rooms, watch the children at play and talk with the manager without feeling rushed.
When should I start looking for a nursery? Popular nurseries can have waiting lists, especially for baby rooms. It’s sensible to start visiting six to twelve months before you need a place, particularly if you’re returning to work on a fixed date.
Should I bring my child on the visit? Yes, if possible. Seeing how staff interact with your child, and how your child responds to the space, is invaluable. Some parents like to make a first visit alone and return with their child later.
What are red flags to watch out for? Be cautious if children seem unhappy or unoccupied, staff appear stressed or disengaged, the setting is dirty or unsafe, or the manager is reluctant to answer questions or show you certain areas.
Can I visit more than once? Absolutely. A good nursery will be happy to welcome you back. A second visit at a different time of day can give you a fuller picture.
How can I arrange a visit to Kiddiwinks? We’d love to show you around. Get in touch with our team to book a visit at a time that suits you, and bring your checklist along. We’re always happy to answer your questions.
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About the author
Claire Fox-Tristram is the Director of Kiddiwinks Day Nursery and has more than 25 years of experience in the early years sector. Throughout her career, she has supported hundreds of families through every stage of their child’s early years, from settling in as babies to getting ready for school. Claire is passionate about giving every child a happy, nurturing start and helping parents feel confident and well informed.
