Things to look for and to ask

• A warm welcome when you arrive. If your child is with you are they engaging with your child.
• Children’s art and work on display.
• Staff joining in with what the children are doing. Staff listening to and answering children.
• Children are happy and engaged.
• Staff are communicating with children in non-verbal ways such as using cards or signing.
• Easy to move furniture and height adjusting tables.
• Parents notice board with up to date information on routines. Staff notice board so you can see who is who.
• Somewhere safe to store any specialist equipment needed to care for your child.
• Are you able to leave your pushchair.
• Is there off road parking

• These help your child feel confident and safe in their new surroundings.
• Discuss with the childcare provider if you need to pay for these hours.
• During this time, do you need to stay with your child. 
• If your child is not settling in, can you end the arrangement without a notice period.

• quiet time
• reading time
• group and individual activities
• outside play and free time

• Will they take your child on outings to places like the local park or library?
• How do they do this and what risk assessments are carried out?
• How do they celebrate festivals and special occasions?
• Do they limit the amount of time that children can watch television or play games on tablets?

• Will there be a daily handover to inform you about your child’s day (e.g., what they ate or did)?
• How do they ensure your child is making progress and identify any areas of need?
• How will they share information with you about your child’s learning and development?
• How do they involve you in planning the next steps?

Early Years Foundation Stage - Read about the sets standards for the learning, development and care of your child from birth to 5 years old