What to look for in a nursery

Finding the right nursery for your child can be a difficult process.

There are a number of websites that parents can use for advice on what to look for in a nursery such as National Day Nurseries Association, OfSTED and The Day Care Trust.

We have compiled a list of features that parents might want to look out for when they visit a nursery school.

• Are the staff friendly, trained and approachable and able to answer your questions when you visit the nursery?



• Does the nursery belong to any professional organisation?



• Are the children at the nursery happy? Are they occupied and busy?



• How does the nursery feel? Is it well maintained and clean throughout?



• Is your child happy with the nursery?



• Does the staff team and the children reflect the local social and cultural groups?



• Are the staff happy?



• How is the day planned? Is there are variety of activities, structure and time to relax for the child?



• What is included in the childcare fees? Will meals, bottles and nappies be provided?



• What do other parents think of the nursery? Personal recommendations highlight the nursery’s reputation.



• What are the educational standards of the nursery?



• If you are not happy with any aspect of the nursery, look elsewhere.

Chocolate Brownies

• 110g (4oz) butter or margarine
  
• 110g (4oz) Plain chocolate
  
• 225g (8oz) Castor Sugar
  
• 2 Beaten Eggs
  
• 110g (4oz) Plain Flour
  
• ½ teaspoon of Baking Powder
  
• Pinch of Salt
  
• Oven setting 180 or 350F or Gas 4
  
• Greased tin 7x11

1. Break up the chocolate and melt in the microwave with the butter.
2. Stir in all the other ingredients
3. Spread mixture in the tin and bake for 30 minutes
4. Cool in the tin for 10 mins ( it will sink slightly )
5. Cut into squares and cool on a wire rack.
The Brownies will be crisp on top and gooey in the middle – delicious.