Visit several - you need to make comparisons

Look for happy children who are:

• Occupied
• Involved
• Independent
• Sociable
• Allowed to access resources freely and to make decisions

Look for a warm, clean, safe environment

Look for a well resourced nursery in:

• Mathematical development
• Mark making equipment
• Messy play - paint, glue etc.
• Role-play area
• A quiet area with books, cushions to relax in
• A safe and secure outdoor area

Look for staff who:

• Interact with children
• Relate to children
• Play with children
• talk to the children
• Let children make decisions for themselves
• give the children lots of praise and encouragement

Ask to see:

• Policies
• Planning
• Record keeping

Expect to be offered:

• A welcome pack
• An Ofsted report - read these and compare them with those of other nurseries
• A free visit for your child
• An answer to all your questions
• A cup of tea