What's the right age for your child to start nursery?
There's no single 'right' age to start nursery. The best time depends on your family, your work and your child's temperament.
No single age
Is right for every child
9 months
When working parent funding starts
3 years
When universal hours begin
In this guide
Starting as a baby (under 1)
Many parents return to work around 9–12 months, which lines up with funded hours starting from 9 months. Babies often settle quickly before separation anxiety peaks, but they'll need a strong bond with their key person.
Starting as a toddler (1–2)
Toddlers may find separation harder at first, but enjoy more interaction with peers and messy, hands-on play. A thorough settling-in period is especially valuable here.
Starting at 3 and over
Starting preschool from 3 gives children time to build social skills and independence before reception. Universal 15 hours make this a common starting point.
Signs your child may be ready
- Can be comforted by other familiar adults
- Shows interest in other children
- Has fairly predictable sleep and feeding patterns
- Copes with short separations from you