Parent guide
How to choose a nursery: the checklist for your visit
A visit lasts half an hour. To get the most out of it, bring this list and ask the director directly.
Updated
License and safety
- Is the nursery licensed by the ministry in charge of youth? Ask to see the license
- Is it on the ground floor, with an emergency exit and a fire extinguisher?
- Who can pick the child up, and how does the nursery check that person’s identity?
- Is there a referring doctor and a first-aid kit?
The team
- How many children per educator in your child’s group?
- What training do the educators have? Do they stay long at the nursery?
- How do the first settling-in days work?
The child’s day
- A typical day: activities, outdoor time, nap
- Meals: cooked on site or brought in? Is the menu shared?
- How are allergies and medicines handled?
- Cleanliness of the rooms, toilets and changing area
Communication with parents
This is often what makes the difference day to day. Ask how you’ll know whether your child ate, slept and had a good day: a paper log, a WhatsApp group, or an app that sends you the day and photos of your child only.
Contract and fees
- The monthly fee, the registration fee and everything charged on top
- Opening hours, closures and holidays
- The house rules: ask for a copy
Frequently asked questions
From what age can a child go to nursery?
Many nurseries take babies from 3 months, others once the child walks. Preschool takes over around age 4.
How many nurseries should I visit?
Two or three are enough to compare. Visit in the morning if you can, when the children are there.