Helpful tips when looking for childcare

• Warm, welcoming and well‑organised rooms
• A calm and purposeful learning atmosphere
• Clear areas for different types of play and learning
• Quiet spaces for rest, calm or emotional regulation
• Opportunities for:
  • role play
  • creative activities
  • construction and problem‑solving
• Resources should be age‑appropriate, varied and well cared for
• Regular access to safe outdoor play

• Secure entry and collection arrangements
• Clear procedures to keep children safe at all times
• Safe storage of medicines and hazardous items
• Good hygiene practices
• Active supervision indoors and outdoors

• Calm, caring and attentive staff
• A clear key person system in place
• Children are supported to feel emotionally secure
• Staff build positive, respectful relationships with children
• Parents are welcomed, listened to and involved

• Learning follows the EYFS statutory framework
• Activities support:
  • communication and language
  • physical development
  • personal, social and emotional development
• Learning is play‑based and supported by skilled adults
• Children’s progress is observed and shared with parents

• Clear explanation of preschool routines
• A supportive and flexible settling‑in process
• Strong role of the key person during transition
• Healthy snacks or meals, as appropriate
• Clear systems to manage allergies and dietary needs
• Appropriate arrangements for rest where needed

• Behaviour is supported calmly, positively and consistently
• Staff help children understand feelings and emotions
• Support for friendships, turn‑taking and cooperation
• Expectations are age‑appropriate and developmentally informed
• The environment feels calm, respectful and nurturing

• The preschool promotes inclusive practice for all children
• Staff are confident in supporting children with additional needs
• Children are supported as individuals within a group setting
• The preschool works in partnership with parents
• Staff work with other professionals when needed

If my child has additional needs

• Staff should talk with me and listen to what I know about my child
• They should ask about my child’s needs, strengths and routines
• My child should feel safe, welcomed and included
• A key person should know my child well
• Activities and routines should be adapted where needed
• Staff should focus on what my child can do
• I should know who to talk to if I am worried
• Communication should be clear, regular and respectful
• I should feel reassured and confident about my child attending

• The preschool must be registered with Ofsted
• Parents should be able to view the most recent inspection report
• Staff are open about inspection outcomes and improvements
• There is a clear commitment to maintaining quality

• Clear information about sessions, hours and fees
• Written policies made available to parents
• Policies should include:
  • safeguarding and child protection
  • settling‑in
  • behaviour support
  • attendance
  • illness, medication and complaints

• Parents should trust their instincts
• The preschool should feel safe, welcoming and right for their child
• Parents should feel confident leaving their child in staff’s care