Questions Every Parent Should Ask During a Nursery Tour (2026)
Why Nursery Tours Matter
A nursery website can tell you a lot, but a nursery visit often tells you far more. If you're currently researching how to choose a nursery in Dubai, visiting the settings in person is a crucial step.
The atmosphere, interactions between teachers and children, safety standards and overall environment are easier to assess in person.
A nursery tour is your opportunity to ask questions, observe daily routines and determine whether a nursery feels like the right fit for your child. It is highly recommended even if you are exploring the best nurseries in Dubai or the top nurseries in Dubai.
Question 1: What Curriculum Does The Nursery Follow?
Understanding the curriculum helps parents understand how children learn. It's helpful to read up on British vs EYFS vs Montessori nurseries before your visit.
Ask:
- Is the nursery EYFS? (You can explore EYFS nurseries in Dubai or EYFS nurseries in Abu Dhabi for examples)
- Montessori?
- British? (For instance, British nurseries in Abu Dhabi or Dubai)
- Reggio Emilia inspired?
- Bilingual?
Question 2: What Is The Child-To-Teacher Ratio?
Smaller ratios often allow for more personalised attention. This is especially important when considering what age your child should start nursery.
Ask:
- How many children are in each class?
- How many teachers support each group?
Question 3: What Qualifications Do Teachers Hold?
Ask about:
- Teacher qualifications
- Early years experience
- Ongoing training
- Staff retention
Question 4: How Does The Nursery Handle Settling-In?
Children adapt differently.
Ask:
- Is there a settling-in programme?
- Can parents stay initially?
- How long does adaptation usually take?
Question 5: How Does Parent Communication Work?
Ask:
- Are daily updates provided?
- Is there a parent app?
- Are photos shared?
- How often are progress reports issued?
Question 6: How Are Safety Procedures Managed?
Ask about:
- Visitor access
- Pick-up authorisation
- Emergency procedures
- First aid training
- Security systems
Question 7: What Does A Typical Day Look Like?
Ask for a sample daily schedule.
Understand:
- Learning activities
- Outdoor play
- Meals
- Nap times
- Free play
Question 8: How Are Behaviour And Emotions Supported?
Ask:
- How are conflicts handled?
- How are children encouraged?
- What is the nursery's approach to emotional development?
Question 9: What Facilities Are Available?
Look for:
- Outdoor play areas
- Reading corners
- Sensory spaces
- Specialist rooms
- Clean classrooms
Question 10: What Fees Are Not Included?
Understanding the full cost is vital. You can research nursery fees in Dubai or nursery fees in Abu Dhabi to get a baseline.
Ask about:
- Registration fees
- Uniforms
- Meals
- Transport
- Activities
Many parents forget to ask this question.
What To Observe During Your Visit
- Are Children Engaged?
- Are Teachers Warm And Attentive?
- Is The Environment Clean?
- Are Safety Procedures Visible?
- Does The Nursery Feel Welcoming?
Trust your observations.
Common Mistakes Parents Make During Nursery Tours
- Only Looking At Facilities
- Not Speaking To Teachers
- Not Asking About Staff Retention
- Comparing Too Few Nurseries
- Making A Decision Too Quickly
Compare Nurseries Before Booking Tours
The Nursery Directory helps parents compare nurseries before scheduling visits.
Compare:
- Curriculum
- Facilities
- Locations
- Languages
- Age Groups
- Fees
- Parent Enquiry Options