Tip: drop off and collect at random times as and when possible - you will get a better idea then of how well the nursery operates. Not always easy to do depending on your working hours, but if you work flexi-time, build up a few hours flexi-time and then pick up from nursery early one day, without any advance notice.
What to expect:
Babies will always get a daily sheet detailing what they have done, eaten, nappies etc. For older children, daily actvities are often on a board in their 'home' room. Ask your child's keyworker (or room leader if keyworker not available) about your child's day every now and then.
Separation can be difficult. Work with your child's keyworker in making the drop-off work well for both you [the parent] and your child. If you show signs of anxiety, your child will pick up on it. So be as positive as possible while in sight/ear shot of your child... even if it means that once you are out of the building you burst into tears! Children who cry when left, typically only cry for 30 seconds, sometimes less. Some may protest for longer, but it is often not for as long as you may be imagining as you leave.
Your child getting regular illness I see as being normal - infections spread rapidly in a group setting. Bumps are also a regular occurance especially with toddlers. Biting can be an issue, the nursery will have a policy regarding how they deal with children who bite. If your child is a victim of biting, then remember that in the future your child may be the Biter... so avoid over reacting if possible. If your child is bitten on a regular basis, discuss with nursery manager about if their policy is effective.
If there are any issues, take them up with the room leader, then manager, then with regulator. If there are lots of problems, it can help to know the rules - the regulator will provide Guidance Notes and Full Day Care Standards document (if in England) is on the SureStart website.
Expect your child to get messy! Don't dress them in their best clothes. If clothing has paint on, wash as quickly as possible, leaving to soak if necessary. Ask the nursery to add a little washing up liquid to paint, to help it come out of clothes (lots of nurseries already do this).
Make sure you label EVERYTHING. If you don't label something (clothing, beaker, favourite blankie...) then don't expect it back!
Avoid letting your child take toys into nursery, unless especially asked to do so by the staff. Label any toy taken in.
Children will sometimes bring back toys from nursery, so before washing clothes, check pockets!