Choosing a nursery in London with its busy streets and numerous choices can be overwhelming for a parent. Every borough like Islington, Redbridge, and the rest have their scattering of nurseries, and picking the ideal nursery for your child is paramount. At kGems  Day Nurseries, we have guided thousands of families in looking after their children’s foundational years through our facilities in Islington, Valentines Park (IG1), Clayhall Park (IG5), and Leytonstone. Below are the five most important ones for children between 3 months and 5 years old.

Location and Accessibility – Proximity Meets Convenience

While nurseries in London have an awkward relationship with the thick bustling London, nothing is better than a nursery being a 3 minute walk from your home or work. Prioritise places close to tube stations like Highbury & Islington, or in family oriented zones such as Ilford and Newbury Park. kGems  nurseries can be found in Valentines (Awarded top 10 UK Parks 2019) and Clayhall, which are also Green Flag and which provide all families in east and north London with excellent park access. Drop-off times, parking, and how your sessions line up with your commute, all need to be considered to create some flexibility for those early mornings.


Curriculum and Learning Approach – Play-Based Magic

When choosing a nursery, look for one that goes beyond minimum standards and follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. A strong play-based curriculum supports curiosity, creativity, and confidence through hands-on learning. At kGems , children explore the world through activities such as bug hunts, gardening, and sensory messy play. These experiences help develop language, social, and emotional skills while fostering a love of learning. A balance of structured activities and free play ensures children are supported as they grow and prepare for future school success.

Outdoor Spaces and Facilities – Fresh Air Essentials

Green spaces in a city with so much concrete is a major benefit. While central nurseries are forced to limit outdoor time to adaptable rooftop play, those that are non-centrally located and adjacent to parks are able to offer so much more. kGems  is uniquely located within large, leafy parks enabling them to take children on daily outdoor adventures – feeding animals, nature walks and just getting outside, whatever the weather. For all centres, look for age-appropriate amenities such as colourful play areas for infants and toddlers, safe and comfortable sleep spaces, and a child-centred menu featuring nutritious, brain-boosting foods. At kGems , we replace screentime for active, imaginative, and creative play that supports healthy development.

Staff Qualifications and Ratios – The Heart of Care  

One of the most important factors in choosing quality childcare is a team of qualified, driven, and passionate educators. High staff turnover can disrupt routines and weaken the important bonds formed between children and caregivers. When visiting a centre, ask how long staff members typically stay and how continuity of care is supported. At kGems , long-standing team members create warm, creative environments and build strong relationships with children and families. Key staff relationships are valued and celebrated, including special milestones such as preschool graduations. Trust is built through consistency, care, and meaningful connections

Fees, Funding, and Hidden Perks – Budget Wisely  

In London, most working parents pay £1,400–£2,500 per month for full-time childcare. From September 2025, the government will fund 30 hours of childcare for 3–4-year-olds and for working parents with children from 9 months old. Nursery fees often include meals, activities, and strong child–parent relationships. At kGems , there are no hidden costs. Always ask for fees in writing, check what’s included, and see if family discounts or “Stay and Play” days are available to make sure the setting is right for you.