Choosing a nursery for your child can feel like a big decision. You can look at websites, read reviews and compare practical details, but often it isn't until you walk through the door that you begin to get a real feel for a setting.
So, what should you look for when visiting a nursery?
How do the children and practitioners interact?
Take time to notice the everyday interactions happening around you.
Are practitioners down at children's level? Do they respond warmly when children approach them? Do the children appear comfortable seeking them out for help, reassurance or simply to share something they've discovered?
Strong relationships are an important foundation for children's wellbeing, confidence and learning.
What does play look like?
A nursery doesn't need to have children constantly moving from one adult-led activity to another for meaningful learning to be happening.
Look for children who are engaged in what they're doing, opportunities to make choices and resources that encourage them to explore, investigate, create and revisit their ideas.
At Banana Moon Dyce, we believe some of the richest learning happens when children have the time and freedom to become genuinely absorbed in their play.
Does the environment invite children to explore?
Look beyond how a room is decorated and consider what children can actually do within it.
Can they access resources themselves? Are there interesting things to investigate? Is there space to be active as well as somewhere quieter to rest or spend time?
And don't forget to ask about the outdoors. Outdoor experiences can offer completely different opportunities for movement, exploration, appropriate challenge and connection with the natural world.
How will they get to know your child?
Every child arrives at nursery with their own personality, routines, interests, experiences and individual needs.
Ask how the nursery gets to know new children, how settling-in is approached and how practitioners use what they learn about each child when planning their care and experiences.
How are families involved?
Good communication should work both ways.
You should feel comfortable sharing information, asking questions and speaking openly with the people caring for your child. Likewise, you should have opportunities to hear about your child's experiences, development and everyday nursery life.
And finally… how does it feel?
Qualifications, environments, policies and procedures are all important — but don't overlook how you feel when you're there.
Take your time. Ask questions. Watch what's happening around you.
Choosing a nursery is about finding somewhere you feel confident your child will be known, cared for, supported and given opportunities to thrive.
If you're currently considering nursery for your child, our team at Banana Moon Dyce would be delighted to welcome you for a visit, show you around and answer any questions you may have.
