Question 1

What is the difference between nursery and childcare?

Accepted Answer

"Nursery" typically refers to a place or facility where young children, usually toddlers up to around three years old, are taken care of during the day. These establishments focus on early childhood education, providing activities that promote learning, socialization, and development appropriate for that age group. Nurseries often have structured schedules, incorporate play-based learning, and may introduce basic educational concepts.  "Childcare," on the other hand, is a broader term that encompasses the care and supervision of children, covering a wider age range from infancy to pre-adolescence. Childcare facilities or services offer care, supervision, and sometimes educational activities for children when their parents or guardians are unavailable, such as during work hours. Childcare can include nurseries for younger children, preschool programs, after-school care, and even programs during school holidays.

Question 2

What age should a child start nursery?

Accepted Answer

The ideal age for a child to start nursery can vary depending on several factors including the child's development, family circumstances, and personal preferences. However, many nurseries accept children from around three months to three years old.  Parents often consider starting nursery when their child is between two and three years old. This age range allows children to benefit from the social interaction and early learning experiences that nurseries provide.

Question 3

When should I start looking at nurseries?

Accepted Answer

It's a good idea to start looking at nurseries well in advance of when you plan to enroll your child.Generally, starting your search around 6-12 months before you plan to enroll your child is a good timeline. This allows enough time for research, visits, and consideration before making a decision.

Question 4

When should I start looking at nurseries?

Accepted Answer

It's a good idea to start looking at nurseries well in advance of when you plan to enroll your child.Generally, starting your search around 6-12 months before you plan to enroll your child is a good timeline. This allows enough time for research, visits, and consideration before making a decision.

Question 5

How much is nursery per hour in UK?

Accepted Answer

On average, nursery fees in the UK can range from around £6 to £10 per hour. However, the cost of nursery per hour in the UK varies widely based on multiple factors such as location, the specific nursery, age of the child, and the services offered.

Question 6

How to find a nursery school place?

Accepted Answer

Finding a nursery school place involves initial research to identify suitable options based on location, fees, and educational approach. Contact the shortlisted nurseries to inquire about availability, admission criteria, and fees. Schedule visits to assess the environment, staff interactions, and facilities. Once you've decided on a nursery, understand their application process and deadlines. Some may require filling out forms or paying a registration fee. If there's a waiting list, consider getting your child's name on it promptly to enhance the chances of securing a spot. Maintain communication with the nursery staff throughout the waiting period to demonstrate your continued interest. You can easily find nurseries in your area on nurseriesandschools.org

Question 7

How do I find the right nursery for my child?

Accepted Answer

Finding the right nursery involves factors like location, educational approach, facilities, and staff qualifications. Start by researching nearby nurseries, checking online reviews, and seeking recommendations from other parents. Visit potential nurseries to observe the environment, how staff interact with children, and assess if it aligns with your child's needs and your preferences for early education. Ask about curriculum, safety measures, and opportunities for social interaction. Trust your instincts and choose a nursery that feels safe, nurturing, and stimulating for your child's developmental needs.  Additionally, consider the nursery's educational philosophy, staff qualifications, and the overall atmosphere. Ensure it provides a balance between structured learning and play-based activities, fostering a supportive environment that encourages your child's social, emotional, and academic development. Effective communication and a positive relationship between the nursery and your family are also vital aspects to consider.  Nurseriesandschools.org is a one stop solution for your nursery searches.

Question 8

What time do nurseries open and close?

Accepted Answer

Most nurseries in the UK typically operate within a range of hours that accommodate working parents.  Generally, nursery hours might start as early as 7:30 or 8:00 AM and can extend until 5:30 or 6:00 PM. Some nurseries might offer extended hours or flexible drop-off and pick-up times for parents who require childcare outside of these standard hours, accommodating varying work schedules.

Question 9

What is the aim of a day nursery?

Accepted Answer

The primary aim of a day nursery is to provide a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where young children can learn, play, and develop essential skills. Day nurseries typically focus on the holistic development of children in their early years. They focus on fostering social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth through age-appropriate activities and play-based learning.  Additionally, day nurseries aim to support families by maintaining open communication and collaboration. They strive to create a partnership with parents or guardians, offering guidance and updates on a child's progress while ensuring a safe, supportive, and enriching environment that aids children in their developmental journey.

Question 10

What is the aim of a day nursery?

Accepted Answer

The primary aim of a day nursery is to provide a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where young children can learn, play, and develop essential skills. Day nurseries typically focus on the holistic development of children in their early years. They focus on fostering social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth through age-appropriate activities and play-based learning.  Additionally, day nurseries aim to support families by maintaining open communication and collaboration. They strive to create a partnership with parents or guardians, offering guidance and updates on a child's progress while ensuring a safe, supportive, and enriching environment that aids children in their developmental journey.

Question 11

What age groups are in a day nursery?

Accepted Answer

Day nurseries typically cater to a range of age groups within early childhood.Day nurseries are for children aged 3 months to 5 years of age.  The age groups in a day nursery often include:  Babies and Infants: Nurseries may have separate rooms or sections specifically designed for infants, usually from around three months old up to approximately 18 months or two years.  Toddlers: Another group within day nurseries is typically toddlers, ranging from around 18 months to three years old. These children might be in a separate area or group within the nursery to cater to their specific needs and developmental stages.  Preschoolers: Day nurseries often have spaces for preschool-aged children, usually from around three to five years old. These children might participate in more structured learning activities and preparations for formal schooling.

Question 12

What comes first nursery or playgroup?

Accepted Answer

Playgroup comes first. Nursery and playgroup differ significantly in their formality and educational focus. Playgroup primarily centers on play, entertainment, and introductory activities like painting, coloring, and socializing. In contrast, nursery education is more structured, emphasizing various subjects such as math and language. It serves as a foundational educational environment, introducing young children to fundamental concepts like math, language skills, and values in a playful manner, preparing them for later entry assessments into reputable kindergarten programs.  The atmosphere in playschools is notably relaxed and playful, fostering a casual environment for children. In contrast, the nursery provides a child's initial exposure to formal education, setting the stage for a more structured learning journey.

Question 13

Why is nursery important in school?

Accepted Answer

Nurseries are essential in schools as they provide the foundational education and social development crucial for a child's early years. They focus on holistic development, introducing basic concepts like language, numeracy, and social skills in a structured yet nurturing environment. This early exposure prepares children for the routines and expectations of formal schooling, fostering independence, confidence, and the ability to interact with peers and adults.  Moreover, nurseries play a pivotal role in identifying any developmental needs early on, allowing for timely support and intervention. They serve as the initial step in a child's educational journey, setting the stage for future academic success and providing the groundwork for social and cognitive development that forms the basis for later learning experiences.

Question 14

What is day care for children?

Accepted Answer

Daycare for children refers to a facility or service that provides care, supervision, and sometimes early education for children during the day while their parents or guardians are at work or unavailable. Daycare centres cater to children of various ages, from infants to pre-adolescents, offering a safe and nurturing environment where children engage in age-appropriate activities, play, and socialization.  The primary focus of daycare is to ensure the well-being and safety of children while their parents are away. Daycare centres typically have trained staff who oversees the children, offering meals, structured activities, playtime, and sometimes educational programs tailored to different age groups.

Question 15

Is nursery part of preschool?

Accepted Answer

Yes, nurseries are a type of preschool. The term "preschool" is a broad category that encompasses early childhood education for children before they enter formal schooling. Nurseries specifically refer to early education and care centers for young children, typically between the ages of three months to five years old.

Question 16

What comes after pre nursery?

Accepted Answer

After pre-nursery, children usually progress to nursery or preschool, depending on the specific terminologies used by different educational settings. Pre-nursery serves as an introductory stage for very young children, usually between the ages of two to three, preparing them for a more structured learning environment.

Question 17

How do you start a nursery?

Accepted Answer

Starting a nursery involves several key steps and considerations:  Research and Planning: Begin by conducting thorough research into the requirements and regulations for starting a nursery in your area or country. Understand the legal and licensing requirements, as well as zoning regulations and health and safety standards that apply to childcare facilities.  Develop a Business Plan: Create a detailed business plan outlining your nursery's concept, mission, target market, services offered, staffing plan, operational structure, budget, and financial projections. This plan will serve as a roadmap for your nursery's establishment and operation.  Secure Funding: Determine the financial resources needed to start and sustain the nursery. Explore funding options such as personal investment, loans, grants, or partnerships to cover startup costs, including facility setup, equipment, staffing, insurance, and initial operational expenses.  Location and Facilities: Choose an appropriate location for your nursery that complies with zoning regulations and is accessible and safe for children and families. Ensure the facility meets licensing standards regarding space requirements, safety features, and amenities suitable for childcare.  Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits: Obtain the required licenses and permits to operate a childcare facility in your area. This typically involves fulfilling regulatory requirements, health inspections, background checks for staff, and meeting specific standards set by local authorities or governing bodies.  Staffing and Training: Recruit qualified and experienced staff members who are passionate about early childhood education and childcare. Provide necessary training and certifications required for working in a nursery, including first aid and child safeguarding training.  Develop Policies and Procedures: Establish clear policies and procedures for enrollment, health and safety protocols, curriculum, parent communication, discipline, and emergency procedures. Ensure these policies comply with regulatory standards and are communicated effectively to staff and parents.  Market and Advertise: Develop a marketing strategy to promote your nursery and attract families. Utilize various channels such as social media, websites, local advertising, and community outreach to reach your target audience.  Starting a nursery requires careful planning, adherence to regulations, and a dedication to providing a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for children. Seeking guidance from experts in childcare regulations or business development can also be beneficial in this process.

Question 18

Why are nurseries closing?

Accepted Answer

Several factors contribute to the closure of nurseries in the UK; a main reason for these challenges was inadequate funding levels, which were made worse by the impact of Covid-19. The other factors include:  Changes in Government Funding: Changes to government funding and subsidy schemes for childcare can significantly impact nurseries.  Economic Challenges: Economic downturns or uncertain financial climates can affect parents' ability to afford nursery fees.  Pandemic Impact: The COVID-19 pandemic had a severe impact on many sectors, including childcare.  Competition and Market Demand: In some areas, there might be oversaturation or insufficient demand for nursery services.  Regulatory Requirements: Compliance with strict regulatory requirements, such as staff-to-child ratios, health and safety standards, and educational guidelines etc can lead to nursery closures.

Question 19

Why is a childminder better than a nursery?

Accepted Answer

Whether a childminder or a nursery is better for a child depends on various factors, including the child's needs, family circumstances, and personal preferences. Each option has its own advantages. Whereas childminders have:  Individualized Care: Childminders typically care for fewer children in a home setting, allowing for more personalized attention.  Flexibility: Childminders may offer more flexible hours compared to nurseries, catering to individual family schedules.  Continuity of Care: With a childminder, children often experience more consistent care from the same individual over time.  Home-Like Environment: Being in a home setting with a childminder can provide a homely and comforting atmosphere, which some children may prefer over a more institutional setting.

Question 20

Why are nurseries so expensive?

Accepted Answer

Several factors contribute to the high cost of nurseries in the UK:  Operating Costs: Running a nursery involves significant expenses, including staffing (salaries and training), rent or property costs, utilities, insurance, educational resources, and maintaining a safe and stimulating environment.  Staffing Ratios and Qualifications: Nurseries in the UK are required to maintain specific staff-to-child ratios and employ qualified staff, which can impact costs.  Limited Government Subsidies: While the government provides some financial support for childcare through schemes like the Tax-Free Childcare and 30 Hours Free Childcare for eligible families, the subsidies might not cover the full cost of nursery fees. This leaves a considerable portion of the cost burden on parents.  Location and Demand: Nursery fees can vary based on geographical location and local demand. In areas with high living costs or high demand for childcare services, nurseries might charge higher fees to cover their expenses and maintain quality standards.  Quality of Services: Nurseries that offer high-quality education, trained staff, specialized programs, and better facilities may charge higher fees to cover these enhanced services.

Action for early years (during COVID-19)

From 20 July, early years settings will no longer be required to keep children in small, consistent groups.

Settings should still consider how they can minimize mixing and all other protective measures must remain in place. The guidance has been updated to reflect this and also includes new content on (updated 2 July):

Read in full here

Revisions to the guidance (24th July 2020)

Guidance Update (30/7/2020): View here

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