How to Choose a Nursery School

Visit in person before you decide. A website or a phone call can tell you about a programme, but only a visit shows you how the staff actually speak to the children, whether the classrooms feel calm and safe, and whether your own child seems comfortable there.

Ask how a typical day is structured. A good nursery balances guided activities such as early literacy and number games with free play, rest, and time outdoors, rather than keeping very young children seated for long stretches.

Ask about class sizes and how many adults are in the room. Smaller groups generally mean a child is noticed sooner if they are struggling, whether that is with a new skill or with settling in emotionally.

Ask how the school communicates with parents. Will you hear about your child's day only at pickup, or is there a more structured update, whether a diary, an app, or a regular note home.

Check basic safety and hygiene practices. Ask about handwashing routines, how allergies or medical needs are recorded, how sign in and sign out works, and who is allowed to collect your child.

Finally, trust what you see in your child. A short visit together, even just sitting in on part of a session, often tells you more than any brochure about whether a place is the right fit.