What to consider when choosing a nursery
Wondering how to pick a nursery to look after your baby? We have put together a list of some things to consider when choosing a nursery, from childcare costs to location.
- Consider the location of the nursery. Will it be more convenient nearer home or your place of work?
- Consider the time it takes you to get there and how you would get there.
- Talk to other parents using facilities locally to you and find out their experiences.
- Read government reports to see if the standards meet your requirements or check out forums to see what local parents think.
- Make a shortlist of places and try to view as many of them as possible.
- Consider taking your child on these visits too if you can.
- Take note of how you and your child are greeted at the nursery.
- Observe your child’s reactions to the staff, setting, and other children.
- Consider if the other children seem settled and happy.
- Consider if the staff are attentive to the children and to each other.
- Ask what activities your child might be involved in during the day.
- Ask if the nursery keeps records of the children. Could they show you an example?
- Ask what provisions are made for naps or quiet time.
- Ask about meals and nutrition and how they deal with picky eaters or specific dietary requirements.
- Ask about toileting and potty-training policies.
- Ask if diapers and formula feed are included, if you’re formula feeding.
- Ask about settling-in periods.
- Consider that you and your child might need time to adjust to childcare arrangements.
- Ask about staff ratios. Are they in line with government guidelines? What happens when people are off sick or on leave?
- Ask what safeguards are in place for other people picking up my child.
- Ask about the childcare costs and what you may be entitled to under government schemes. Also, check if they accept childcare vouchers if you have these in your country.
- Find out what the nursery’s daily hours are and if these apply all year round or just to term times.
- Check the availability of places. Some nursery places need to be booked up to a year ahead.
- If you’re returning to work, read our tips for going back to work after a baby.
SOURCES:
https://www.childcare.co.uk/information/nursery-is-your-child-ready
Related articles
Your baby proofing action plan
Protect your baby with effective baby proofing strategies. Discover essential tips to make your home safer as your little one begins to explore and grow.
6 mins to read
How To Help Baby Sleep Better
Learn the importance of baby sleep for growth and development. Discover red flags in your baby's sleep patterns and ensure they get the rest they need.
5 mins to read
How to emotionally prepare for parenthood before becoming a mom
Discover how to emotionally prepare for parenthood, recognize red flags, and manage challenges to ensure a smoother transition into motherhood.
5 mins to read
How to handle toddler sleep problems
Learn how to address toddler sleep problems with expert tips, identify red flags, and promote healthy sleep habits for your little one's well-being.
5 mins to read
Understanding why babies cry
Explore helpful techniques to calm your crying baby, from addressing basic needs to create a peaceful environment, fostering comfort and connection.
5 mins to read
7 Ways to Enjoy Motherhood Without Forgetting Yourself
Learn more about how to take care of yourself to enjoy motherhood. Click here to read some insights about it.
5 mins to read
How to deal with morning sickness at the start of pregnancy
Morning sickness can strike at any time of day or night. Especially at the start of pregnancy. Here’s a few things that could help make the first, delicate trimester a little easier to stomach.
1 min to read
Your hospital bag checklist
Not sure what to pack in your hospital bag? We have put together a simple hospital bag checklist with all the essentials. Forget packing light, it’s about packing right.
3 mins to read
Baby Massage: A Bonding Experience Between You and Your Baby
If you want to learn how a baby massage can improve the way your child feels while he is growing, click here.
4 mins to read
C-sections: Everything You Need to Know and Consider
Get to know more about the c-sections, how they are done, the risk and how to take care of yourself after the procedure. Click here and learn everything about it.
6 mins to read
How to help baby reflux
Baby reflux. It’s one of the most common symptoms in babies in their first year. Here are some baby reflux remedies to help prevent and ease the symptoms.
2 mins to read
How to help toddler tummy problems
Painful toddler tummy problems, including toddler diarrhea and toddler constipation, are horrible for parents and babies alike.
2 mins to read
Working mom woes? Follow our tips for going back to work after a baby
If your family finances demand that you’re to become a working mom, you’re more than likely planning your return to work while navigating a rollercoaster of emotions—from feeling guilty and anxious
3 mins to read
10 money-saving tips for having a baby on a budget
Working out how much to save for a baby can be a daunting task.
4 mins to read
How to cope with first trimester anxiety
Suffering from first trimester anxiety? You’re not alone, 1 in 10 pregnant women experience this pregnancy symptom in their first trimester. Here’s how to keep the feelings under control.
2 mins to read
Taking baby out for the first time guide
Taking baby out for the first time can be daunting. This checklist should help make it easy for all your baby friendly days out. Whether it’s a walk in the park, or somewhere more far-flung.
2 mins to read
Planning a baby shower checklist
A new arrival is definitely an excuse for a party. Whether friends or family are planning a baby shower for you, or you’re doing it yourself, here are some baby shower ideas to get you started.
2 mins to read
Baby Teething Tips
Teething can be a distressing time for your baby and you too. We’ve put together an action plan of teething tips, so you can all get through it without gritting your teeth.
2 mins to read
How to cope with pregnancy pains and discomfort
As your body changes, pregnancy pains and discomfort can occur, especially in your back, legs and feet. The good news is, there are ways to ease your pregnancy aches and pains.
2 mins to read
