Nursery: Yes or No?

Is nursery right for your child — and for you?

As soon as your baby arrives, it’s natural for the thought of nursery to pop into your mind — especially if you know you’ll be returning to work within months. These early questions can bring excitement… or anxiety. It’s not easy to imagine leaving your little one in someone else’s care, even for a few hours.

So let’s explore the pros and cons of nursery life, and help you decide what’s right for your child — and for you.

🟢 The Benefits of Nursery

1. Boosts social and communication skills
Nursery gives children the chance to mix with others, share, take turns, express their needs, and understand boundaries. Many parents find their child becomes more confident and chatty after starting nursery.

2. Builds independence
From putting on their coat to solving small problems without a grown-up, children develop practical skills that prepare them for school, and life.

3. Encourages early learning
Through stories, songs, messy play, crafting, and drawing, children explore letters, numbers, shapes, fine motor skills, and language in a playful, age-appropriate way.

4. Creates a secure routine
Children thrive on predictability. Nursery routines — snack time, outdoor play, lunch, quiet time help them feel safe and confident in what’s coming next.

5. It gives you time
Whether you’re working, caring for others, or just in need of a breather, nursery offers space for you to recharge. That’s not selfish, it’s healthy.

🔴 The Challenges of Nursery

1. The cost
Nursery fees can be high, especially before funded hours kick in. Even with support, many families still have to top up the hours they need.

2. Illnesses (yes, lots of them)
It’s common for children to catch frequent bugs in those first months. Think colds, coughs, hand-foot-and-mouth… and plenty more. It can be exhausting, but it also helps build immunity over time.

3. Separation anxiety
Some children take to nursery straight away. Others may cry at drop-off for days or even weeks. It’s tough — for them and you. Sending in a comfort item, building up slowly, and keeping your goodbyes short and sweet can help.

4. Less one-to-one attention
Unlike at home, nursery staff are caring for several children at once, so your child might not always get the same level of individual focus.

5. Busy, noisy environments
Some children thrive in social settings. Others may find the noise and stimulation overwhelming. If your child tends to be sensitive or slow to warm up, they might need more time to adjust.

🤔 So… is nursery right for your child?

There’s no universal answer. Every child is different, and every family’s situation is unique. Some children blossom in a nursery setting; others may do better in a smaller childminder group or staying home a little longer.

Whatever choice you make, it’s valid — and reversible. You know your child best.

If you’ve already chosen nursery, read more on how to make those first days easier for you and your little one.