Questions to ask when you visit a nursery: A parent’s essential guide
Choosing the right nursery is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. A nursery should feel safe, welcoming, and inspiring for your child. But with so many options available, how do you know which one is the best fit?
At The Green Giraffe Nursery, we understand that visiting nurseries can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this helpful guide covering the key questions every parent should ask when visiting a nursery.
Why Is It Important to Ask Questions During a Nursery Visit?
A nursery visit gives you the opportunity to look beyond brochures and websites. It’s your chance to see how staff interact with children, understand the nursery’s values, and determine whether the environment matches your child’s needs.
The right questions can help you make a confident and informed decision.
1. What Are Your Staff Qualifications and Experience?
The people caring for your child are arguably the most important factor in your decision.
Ask:
- What qualifications do staff hold?
- How experienced are the practitioners?
- Do staff receive ongoing training?
- Is there a designated key person for each child?
Well-trained and experienced staff can provide high-quality care while supporting your child’s learning and development.
2. What Is the Staff-to-Child Ratio?
Staff ratios directly impact the amount of attention each child receives.
Ask:
- How many children does each practitioner care for?
- Do you exceed the minimum legal requirements?
- How is supervision managed throughout the day?
Smaller ratios often allow for more personalised care and stronger relationships between children and staff.
3. How Do You Support Children’s Learning and Development?
Every quality nursery should have a clear approach to early years education.
Ask:
- How do you plan activities?
- How do you track progress?
- How do you prepare children for school?
- How do you support different learning styles?
Look for a nursery that encourages curiosity, creativity, confidence, and independence.
4. What Does a Typical Day Look Like?
Understanding the daily routine can help you decide whether it suits your child’s personality and needs.
Ask about:
- Meal times
- Outdoor play
- Learning activities
- Nap times
- Free play opportunities
A balanced day should include both structured activities and child-led exploration.
5. How Much Outdoor Play Do Children Have?
Outdoor learning plays an important role in children’s development.
Ask:
- How often do children go outside?
- What outdoor facilities are available?
- Do children go outside in all weather conditions?
- How do outdoor activities support learning?
Regular access to outdoor spaces helps children build confidence, physical skills, and a love of nature.
6. How Do You Manage Safety and Security?
Parents naturally want reassurance that their child will be safe.
Ask:
- How is the nursery secured?
- Who can collect my child?
- What safeguarding procedures are in place?
- How are accidents and incidents managed?
A quality nursery should be transparent and confident when discussing safety procedures.
7. How Do You Communicate With Parents?
Strong parent partnerships are vital.
Ask:
- How will I receive updates about my child’s day?
- Do you use a parent app?
- How often are progress reviews shared?
- Can I speak to my child’s key person?
Regular communication helps parents feel connected and informed.
8. How Do You Handle Settling-In Sessions?
Every child adjusts differently to a new environment.
Ask:
- How are settling-in sessions organised?
- Can parents stay initially?
- What support is available if my child becomes upset?
A thoughtful settling-in process helps children feel secure and build confidence gradually.
9. What Meals and Snacks Are Provided?
Nutrition plays a key role in children’s health and development.
Ask:
- Are meals prepared on site?
- How are dietary requirements managed?
- Can allergies be accommodated?
- Are healthy eating habits encouraged?
Reviewing sample menus can provide valuable insight into the nursery’s approach to nutrition.
10. What Makes Your Nursery Different?
This is often the most revealing question.
Ask:
- What do parents love most about your nursery?
- What is your educational philosophy?
- What are you most proud of?
- What makes your setting unique?
The answer often reflects the nursery’s values, culture, and commitment to children and families.
What Should You Look for During a Nursery Visit?
Alongside asking questions, pay attention to what you see and feel.
Look for:
✅ Happy, engaged children
✅ Warm and caring staff interactions
✅ Clean and organised environments
✅ Age-appropriate activities
✅ Safe and secure facilities
✅ Positive relationships between staff and parents
Trust your instincts. If a nursery feels welcoming, nurturing, and aligned with your family’s values, that’s a great sign.
Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing a Nursery
What is the most important question to ask a nursery?
Ask about staff qualifications, staff turnover, and how children are supported in their learning and development.
How many nurseries should I visit before choosing one?
Most parents visit between two and five nurseries before making a decision. Comparing several settings can help you identify what matters most to your family.
When should I start looking for a nursery?
It’s advisable to begin researching nurseries several months before you’ll need childcare, as many popular nurseries have waiting lists.
How can I tell if a nursery is good?
Look for happy children, engaged staff, clear communication, strong safety procedures, positive reviews, and an environment that feels nurturing and welcoming.
Visit The Green Giraffe Nursery
At The Green Giraffe Nursery, we believe every child deserves a safe, stimulating, and caring environment where they can thrive. We welcome parents to ask questions, explore our setting, and see first-hand how we support children’s learning, confidence, and wellbeing.
If you’re looking for a nursery that feels like a home away from home, we’d love to meet you.
Book a visit today and discover what makes The Green Giraffe Nursery a special place for children to learn, play, and grow.
