A good day nursery offers a safe, secure environment with a variety of activities and wide range of educational toys.

Nurseries are a safe bet if you need reliable day care, with opening hours that fit an average working day - and you won't have to contend with time off for illness or holidays. Many nurseries provide part-time places, and some will take babies from as young as six weeks. The downside is, as ever, the cost - plus if your child is very young you might prefer the one-to-one care provided by a nanny or childminder.

How to find a Nursery

Look online, or try your local phone book for day nurseries in your area. You can search by postcode for all forms of childcare at Government service ChildcareLink. Word of mouth is always good to hear the experience of other mums, but bear in mind every child is different so you will need to trust your own judgement to find the right place for you.

What to ask a Nursery

Nurseries are registered by Ofsted and inspected regularly but standards do vary, so it's wise to visit several before making your final decision. The National Day Nurseries Association recommends the following things to look out for:

Seal of Approval

1. 1. Always ensure that the nursery you choose is registered with Ofsted in England, the Care and Social Services Inspectorate Wales or the Care Commission in Scotland. The registration certificate should be displayed together with a current certificate of insurance.
2. 2. Does the nursery belong to a professional organisation such as National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA), keeping them informed of current issues?
3. 3. You may ask to see a copy of the recent inspection report highlighting the quality of nursery education and care and the appropriateness of equipment and facilities.
4. 4. Has the nursery gained any awards of excellence, e.g. NDNA's Quality Counts or e-Quality Counts?

Happy, Safe and Clean

1. 1. Is there a safe and clean outside play area? Is the interior bright, warm, clean, well decorated and welcoming? Is the equipment good quality, clean, safe and appropriate?
2. 2. What sort of meals are provided and at what time? Is the food fresh? Can they provide for special diets? Are the menus changed on a regular basis?
3. 3. Do the children in the nursery look happy and well occupied? Are the children using a variety of equipment and are staff involved with their play?
4. 4. Are the staff happy, relaxed, well presented, calm and confident?
5. 5. Ask about the staff to children ratios.

High Standards

1. 1. 50% of staff must hold relevant childcare qualifications such as NVQ Childcare Level2 or equivalent. One member of staff should have a first Aid certificate and all supervisors are required to have an NVQ Childcare Level 3 or equivalent.
2. 2. Do parents and staff work in partnership recording your child's activities and achievements?
3. 3. Will your child be attached to a key-worker? Who will be your main contact and who will keep you informed?
4. 4. What will the cost be and what does this include? For example nappies, meals, holiday charges etc.
5. 5. Activities to be discussed are; diet, potty training, emergency procedures, discipline and other nursery polices.

Nursery pros and cons

Pros

• Registered and inspected regularly
• Opening hours suit most working days
• Child-centred day with age-appropriate activities
• Trained workers
• You always know where your child is
• Lots of other children for developing social skills
• Open all year round

Cons

• Lots of children means lots of bugs
• High fees
• If your child is sick, they can't go
• Babies need time to adjust to new surroundings
• Fixed opening hours