Questions. Sometimes they’re awkward to ask, but there’s no such thing as a silly question, especially when it comes to choosing the right nursery for your child. Asking these questions can help you gain a better understanding of the nursery’s approach to education, the qualifications of the staff, the daily routine, and the policies on health. All of these factors, when considered, will help you to make an informed decision about which nursery is the best fit for your child. Here are a few pointers to get you started!
What is the nursery’s approach to early childhood education, and how is it supported in the classroom?
Ask the nursery staff about their approach to early childhood education. Do they have a curriculum or lesson plans, or do they follow a more child-led approach? Have a look into what types of activities and materials are provided to support learning and development and how these are incorporated into the classroom. Understanding the nursery’s approach to early childhood education can help you decide if the system aligns with your own beliefs for your child’s education and gives an insight into the types of opportunities your child may receive.
What is the staff-to-child ratio, and what are the qualifications and experience of the staff members?
The current regulations concerning child-to-staff ratios in England can be found in the EYFS Statutory Framework and is accessible online. Most nurseries require their staff to hold at least an NVQ Level 2 Certificate in Childcare and an NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education and Care. However, each nursery is different, so it is worth investigating this.
What is the daily routine like, and how is it structured to meet the developmental needs of young children?
Typical care routines of a young child range from nappy changing, feeding, dressing, play-based activities, and napping. These basic routines are necessary to your child’s health and will aid their overall development.
What is the nursery’s policy on health and safety, including illness, medication, and emergency procedures?
Make sure the nursery policy on health and safety contains instructions for handling illnesses, medications, and emergencies. The policy should include instructions on how to administer medication, prevent the spread of infections, and deal with emergencies as well as how the nursery will handle any accidents or illnesses that arise on the property. The policy should also mandate that every employee gain a current First Aid certificate, specialising in paediatric care.
What is the process for communication with parents, and how are updates and progress reports shared?
Effective communication is key to supporting your child’s success. Email, phone conversations, in-person visits, and online forums are just a few of the ways nursery staff can get in touch with parents. Teachers and practitioners should
also regularly update parents on their child’s academic performance, behaviour, and social-emotional development to make sure they are aware of their progress.
So, if you’re looking for a nursery for your little one in the near future, you can find plenty of great organisations within our magazine and online business directory here.
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