How To Choose A Daycare​: 10 Things You Should Look For

Choosing childcare is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. Whether you’re heading back to work, seeking some regular time for yourself, or simply looking for a place where your little one can thrive and grow, finding the right setting matters. But with so many options available; nurseries, childminders, pre-schools, and more – it can feel overwhelming.

That’s why we’re here to help you find out how to choose a daycare that meets your child’s needs and gives you peace of mind. Below are 10 essential things to look for when choosing childcare. These aren’t just practical tips, they’re here to help you feel confident, reassured, and ready to make the right choice for your family.

 

1. A Warm, Welcoming Environment

One of the first steps in learning how to choose a daycare is to trust your instincts. When you walk into a nursery or meet a childminder for the first time, how do you feel? Is it bright, cheerful, and clean? Are the staff smiling and engaging with the children? Do the children look happy, comfortable, and involved?

At Poppies Nursery, we believe a nursery should feel like a home from home, a place where every child is made to feel safe and loved for who they are. That cosy, familiar feeling helps children settle in, build trust, and feel confident enough to explore and learn. It’s not just about soft furnishings and story corners (although we love those too!); it’s about creating a space full of warmth, kindness, and belonging. Somewhere your child feels proud to come to every day and somewhere you feel reassured leaving them.

Trust your instincts.  Somewhere your child feels proud to come every day, and somewhere you feel reassured leaving them, that’s exactly what you want when deciding how to choose a daycare.

 

2. Qualified and Caring Staff

Another big factor in how to choose a daycare is the people looking after your child. It’s not just about certificates (though qualifications are important!); it’s about connection. Are the adults kind, patient, and genuinely interested in the children’s wellbeing? Do they get down to their level, use encouraging words, and help them navigate big emotions with understanding?

Look out for staff who are experienced and trained in child development, safeguarding, and first aid – but also look for people who clearly love what they do. Passionate, nurturing practitioners make all the difference. We wouldn’t know what to do with ourselves without our incredible nursery practitioners!

 

3. A Strong Key Person System

A big part of how to choose a daycare is making sure your child feels secure. A good childcare setting will assign your child a “key person”- someone who builds a strong bond with them and becomes a familiar, trusted figure. This is especially important for younger children who need that sense of security.

The key person should get to know your child’s routines, interests, and personality, and work closely with you to support their development and happiness.

 

4. A Focus on Learning Through Play

When researching how to choose a daycare, ask how they approach learning. Children learn best when they’re engaged, curious, and having fun and that’s where play comes in. All nurseries should be following the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, but what really makes a difference is how it’s delivered.

Look for a setting where the curriculum is exciting, dynamic, and tailored to the children’s interests. When activities are based on what the children love—whether that’s dinosaurs, painting, bugs, or building it sparks deeper engagement and more meaningful learning.

Staff should have high expectations for your child’s development, and that should be reflected in their planning, the way they interact with your child, and how they extend their learning through thoughtful questions, encouragement, and support. A rich, child-centred learning environment not only helps your little one grow in confidence and ability it also helps them develop a genuine love for learning from the very start.

 

5. Good Communication With Parents

One of the most practical things to consider when deciding how to choose a daycare is communication. You know your child best, and a great setting will want to work in partnership with you. Find out how they communicate with parents: Do they send daily updates or photos? Is there a secure app or regular meetings to chat about progress? Can you pop in to speak to staff at drop-off or pick-up?

Good communication builds trust – and helps you feel included in your child’s day, even when you’re not there.

 

6. Safe and Secure Facilities

Safety is always a top priority when thinking about how to choose a daycare. When visiting, check that doors and gates are secure, outdoor areas are fenced, and rooms are clean and well-organised. There should be clear procedures in place for things like fire drills, illness, and emergencies.

Ask how the setting handles safeguarding and what checks are in place for staff. Knowing your child is in safe hands gives you priceless peace of mind.

 

7. A Nurturing Approach to Behaviour

Children are still learning how to express themselves and understand big emotions. That’s why it’s important to choose a setting that supports behaviour positively, with lots of praise, clear boundaries, and age-appropriate guidance.

Rather than punishments or strict discipline, staff should be helping children understand how to share, take turns, and manage feelings in a caring, respectful way.

 

8. A Rich, Varied Daily Routine

Children feel safe and secure when they know what to expect. A good setting will have a balanced daily routine that includes time for free play, structured activities, mealtimes, rest, and outdoor fun.

Look for opportunities for learning and socialising throughout the day. Are there regular story times, music sessions, or messy play? Do the children get to go outside, explore nature, or go on little adventures?

A variety of activities keeps things exciting and helps children discover new interests and skills.

9. Healthy Meals and Snacks

Little tummies need nourishing food to help them grow, concentrate, and stay energised. Ask what meals and snacks are offered, and whether the setting caters for allergies or dietary needs.

Bonus points if the menu includes lots of fruit, veg, and home-cooked meals! Some settings even get children involved in helping prepare snacks or learning about healthy choices – great for building confidence and independence.

10. Happy, Confident Children

Ultimately, this is what it’s all about. The most telling sign when deciding how to choose a daycare is simply how the children look. When you visit or have a trial session, take a moment to observe the children. Do they seem happy and engaged? Are they chatting, laughing, and playing together? Are they comfortable approaching the adults and asking for help?

Children who feel safe, secure, and understood will naturally flourish – and that’s the sign of a setting that’s doing things right.

 

A Final Thought on How To Choose A Daycare

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to childcare. What works for one family may not be the best fit for another, and that’s okay. The important thing is knowing how to choose a daycare that feels right for you and your child.

Take your time and don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions. Most importantly, trust your gut. You know your child better than anyone else and when you find the right setting, you’ll feel it.

It’s also a good idea to look up the nursery’s most recent Ofsted inspection report online. This will give you an independent view of the setting’s standards and strengths, as well as areas they’re working on. While ratings aren’t everything, they can be a helpful piece of the puzzle when making your decision.

Choosing childcare is a big step, but it can also be an incredibly exciting one. You’re opening up new doors for your child to explore the world, make friends, and grow into their unique little self with confidence and joy.

Get in touch with us today to see how we could be the right nursery for your child.