Choosing the right childcare is a big decision. Whether you’re searching for childcare in Hertfordshire or narrowing down nurseries in Hertford, asking the right questions can help you feel confident about your choice.
Below are 10 practical questions to ask during a visit—plus what a good answer should include. (If you’re still comparing options, you might also find our guide to choosing a nursery in Hertford helpful.)
1. What ages do you accept and how are rooms/staffing organised?
Ask which age groups they care for and how children are grouped. A strong nursery will clearly explain how routines and learning are tailored for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.
2. What qualifications and training do staff have?
Look for early years qualifications, safeguarding training, paediatric first aid, and ongoing development. Consistency matters too—ask about staff turnover and how they support stable key-person relationships.
3. What does a typical day look like?
Request a clear daily routine: drop-off, play, learning time, meals, naps/rest, outdoor time, and pick-up. (If you want a real example of routine and flow, it’s worth reading our post on the benefits of enrolling early—routine is a big part of why early starts can help.)
4. How do you support settling-in for new children?
Ask about phased starts, parent stay-and-play sessions, and how they handle separation anxiety. A great nursery will describe a gentle, child-led approach and regular communication with families.
5. How do you support children’s learning and development?
They should reference the EYFS and be able to explain how learning happens through play, activities, and observations—without feeling too “school-ish” too soon. You can also explore different childcare setups in our parent’s guide to childcare options in Hertfordshire.
6. How do you prepare children for primary school?
Ask how they build confidence, independence, language skills, early maths, attention, and social readiness. A strong answer includes school-readiness embedded in daily routine—not pressure. (Related read: how our Hertford nursery prepares children for primary school.)
7. How much outdoor time do children get?
Outdoor play supports physical development, resilience, and wellbeing. Ask how often they go outside and what activities they do (nature play, bikes, messy play, etc.).
8. What are your food and allergy procedures?
Ask to see a sample menu and how they handle allergies, dietary preferences, and picky eating. A good nursery will explain safe procedures and positive mealtime routines.
9. What are your safeguarding, security, and illness policies?
This is a key trust question. Look for secure entry/exit, trained staff, clear procedures, and transparent communication with parents. A strong nursery will welcome these questions and answer clearly.
10. What are the fees, session options, and funded childcare choices?
Ask about hours, flexibility, deposits, notice periods, and what is included (meals, nappies, extra activities). Also ask about funded childcare eligibility and how it’s applied.
Quick Tour Tip: Bring This Checklist
- How do children seem to feel in the space—calm, curious, happy?
- Do staff engage warmly and speak kindly to children?
- Are learning areas tidy, inviting, and age-appropriate?
- Do you feel comfortable asking questions?
Looking for Childcare in Hertford?
If you’d like to visit Mini Morgans Nursery, we’d love to welcome you. You can start by exploring our resources:
- Top 7 things to look for when choosing a nursery in Hertford
- Childcare options in Hertfordshire: what you need to know
- How we prepare children for primary school
- Benefits of enrolling early in a nursery in Hertford
Ready to chat or book a tour? Contact us here.
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