Top tips on choosing the right childcare provider

We’re fast approaching the end of another nursery and school term, and as some parents prepare for their child to take the leap into school, others are no doubt looking at childcare for the first time.

It’s a big step, as you are effectively leaving your child in the hands of strangers, so the importance of choosing the right childcare provider cannot be over-stressed.

Fortunately there are many places where you can get fantastic advice and guidance including Ofsted, the National Day Nurseries Association and Direct Gov.

Top tips include:

1. Does the nursery offer free taster sessions where you can observe your child in the environment they will be in?
2. Is your child comfortable in the environment and interacting with both staff and other children happily?
3. Does the nursery have a good Ofsted report?
4. As a parent will you have access to the rooms your child will be in at the nursery?
5. What security measures are in place e.g. keypad entry to rooms, password for collection of child by someone other than yourself?
6. Is there a wide variety of age groups amongst the staff? Differing ages of care giver can be beneficial for a child as they will learn different things.
7. Does the nursery provide a pick up and drop off service?
8. What facilities are in place to prepare your child for moving to school?
9. Is there a full range of educational and stimulating activities – both indoor and outdoor – for the children?
10. How will the nursery keep you informed of your child’s development?

Managing director of Little Tinkers private day nurseries in Brighouse and Hipperholme, Mandy Naylor, said: “As a parent myself, I know how scary it is to leave your child in someone else’s care, so having confidence and complete trust in your childcare provider is essential. Fortunately there are ways you can reassure yourself of a nursery’s suitability and capability to look after your child, such as the tips provided here.”

“Other things we would also recommend you consider are what the nursery’s healthy eating policy is and, of course, what other parents say about the place. Most important of all is to not be afraid to ask. Regardless of how minor or insignificant you think your query might be, make sure you have all the answers you need before making a final decision.”