Choosing childcare

What to look for and questions to ask

Staff
What training and experience does the carer or team have? What is staff turnover like? Are all staff DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checked? What checks are carried out when appointing staff?

Environment
Is it secure? Does it feel nurturing? Are there pets?  Is there enough space? Is there secure outside space? If not, where will children play in fresh air?

Diet
What’s on the menu? Is there fresh fruit and veg? Is there access to water when children want it? Do they cater for special diets?

Supervision
Who supervises and how? What is the staff to child ratio?

Emotional care
What are the routines? How is difficult behaviour dealt with? Are staff warm, do they join in and show affection? There should be a written policy which you can see.

Equipment
Is it creative, varied, plentiful and of a high standard? Do displays show different cultures positively? What physical activities do they do?

Health
Are the toilets and basins clean and child-sized? Are there facilities for potty training and baby changing? Where and how are meals prepared?

Safety
What happens in the case of an emergency or accident? What safety procedures do they have in place?

Parent feedback
How are parents consulted? How are parents involved? How are complaints dealt with? Are there references from other parents available?

Inspections
Is there a copy of the latest Ofsted inspection report? When is the next inspection due? You can see Ofsted reports at www.ofsted.gov.uk. Childcare run by a school will be included on that school’s Ofsted report.  Find out about Ofsted’s role in regulating childcare.

Ask about all your needs and expectations. And remember to ask about things like: your specific working hours, time-keeping, baby-sitting and the policy on late pick-ups.

Department for Education guidance
The Department for Education has produced guidance about using after-school clubs, tuition and community activities for parents and carers. It explains what school and activities clubs, tutors and coaches should be doing to provide a safe environment for the children that attend their setting.