Trying to decide between two nurseries, one more 'creative' other more 'structured'.

[FlossALump]

Finding it really hard! I wouldn't say DS was particularly a more structured or a more creative boy, he's quite easy going and seemed to settle in quite happily to both when we visited.

One is nearer us and does stuff like trampolining, takes them swimming and big emphasis on messy play - less on books. Home cooked food. Staff there not so friendly though and began my tour with how they accept payment... Also less spacious and less well organised. Generally felt a little 'grubby' iyswim?

Second one further walk away (will help me with my post pregnancy weight loss?!). Staff really friendly and professional. Spacious nursery with pets and lots of outdoor space. Less emphasis on extra curricular activites, and has a good ofsted report. Good systems of keeping parents informed about things. DP not keen on this one as it is on his 'patch' and he knows a little too much about the locals... However the nursery itself is well off road, secluded, almost missed it! Both places children seemed well behaved.

Can anyone tell me what to do?!? DS is 2.5 atm, and looking for a place to start around september time to coincide with stopping going to CM and to maintain his independence/social skills after new baby born as he loves going to CM.

[Crocky]

Would have said the first apart from the staff.
The staff really do make a nursery.

[suzycreamcheese]

dont have that much experience and new to the preschool / nursery world but would definately go for the one where the staff seemed more attentive and interested in the kids..

[FlossALump]

Hmm, yes. The first was definately better for that. DS was included in the tour there but not really on the second. But then on the first it was because he came to find us, on the second he had a breadstick and a young lady on either side of him...

[lyrabelacqua]

The one with the friendlier staff and lots of outdoor space. Sounds great.

[Bubble99]

The second one I reckon, Floss.

All nurseries need to do lots of gross motor stuff, running, jumping, balancing etc. As well as messy play. And if they've had a good OFSTED then they're doing it.

[FlossALump]

Ah! Thanks Bubble. Kind of hoped you might see this! I am definately more keen on that one. Just have to talk DP into it (although he is already quite taken with the fact it has a rabbit! ).