What to Expect From A Day At Nursery: Inside Life At Fennies

If you’re preparing your child for nursery, you may find yourself wondering, “What does a typical day at nursery look like?” or “What will my child do all day?” At Fennies, we know that choosing the right nursery is one of the most important decisions parents make! Which is partly why understanding what a full day can look like will make all the difference.

Every day at Fennies is carefully structured to balance education, play, nutrition, rest and social connection, creating a safe and inspiring space where your child can thrive. From morning hellos to afternoon adventures, our expert educators design experiences that support every stage of your child’s development, all while helping children build confidence and independence.

Here’s a closer look at what happens during a day at Fennies Nursery, from drop-off to pick-up, and how each moment is thoughtfully planned to give your child the right start for under 5s.

A Calm And Caring Start To The Day

The morning at Fennies begins with a friendly welcome. From the moment you arrive, our team greets you and your child by name, creating a sense of belonging that helps children settle quickly. Your child’s key person is there to greet them too and able to have a quick chat with you about how the morning has gone at home. Whether it’s a great night’s sleep or a favourite toy they’ve brought along, these conversations help us personalise the day around your child’s needs.

If you’re wondering how nurseries help children settle in, our Parent Partnerships approach ensures that communication flows both ways. We build strong relationships with families so every child feels secure and understood from the moment they arrive.

How Do Children Learn Through Play At Nursery?

Once settled, children move into their morning activities that are a blend of structured learning and child-led play that builds independence, confidence and creativity. Parents often ask us, “How do nurseries teach children through play?” The answer lies in our award-winning Curriculum & Pedagogy, which combines educational expertise with the joy of exploration.

Our baby's room, known as Explorers, might start their day with some sensory play where they get to discover new textures, colours and sounds that stimulate early brain development. Toddlers, or Discoverers, begin to practice communication and coordination through songs, storytelling and imaginative play. Meanwhile, our preschool, Inventors, might explore early STEM experiments, group problem-solving or creative art inspired by our Book of the Month.

Every session is guided by the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, ensuring that children progress across all seven areas of learning, from language and literacy to physical and emotional development. But what truly makes Fennies unique is how we enrich this with specialist sessions in STEM, Art and PE, designed to spark curiosity and a lifelong love of learning.

Do Children Play Outside Every Day At Nursery?

One of the questions we hear most often is, “Do children play outside every day at nursery?” The answer is yes, absolutely! At Fennies, our free-flow environments allow children to move naturally between indoor and outdoor learning spaces throughout the day.

In the morning, your child might begin building a block tower indoors and then head straight out into the garden to see how tall they can make it using natural materials. Our bespoke outdoor areas are designed with purpose, supporting both physical development and connection to the natural world. From mini vegetable patches to climbing equipment and water play zones, every part of the garden invites discovery.

What Do Children Eat At Nursery?

By mid-morning, it’s time to refuel. Children enjoy a healthy snack, freshly prepared by our on-site chefs, who specialise in creating meals that are as nutritious as they are delicious. Parents often ask, “What do children eat at nursery?” You can explore our Food & Nutrition page to see our seasonal menus, which are accredited by the Early Years Alliance.

Snack time is a valuable opportunity for social learning. Children practice self-serving, share with friends, and learn about food choices and healthy habits that will last a lifetime.

How Can Parents Stay Updated On Their Child’s Day?

As your child continues their morning adventures, you’ll stay connected through our Fennies Parent App, Famly. Parents love receiving real-time updates, whether it’s a photo of their child exploring the sensory area or a note about what they enjoyed most during storytime. This digital connection ensures you’re part of their day, even when you’re apart.

By the time mid-morning arrives, children are fully engaged and growing in confidence with every activity. For us, mornings at Fennies aren’t just the start of the day, they’re the beginning of endless possibilities.

What Happens At Lunchtime In Nursery?

Our talented on-site chefs prepare nutritious, balanced meals that give children the energy they need to learn and grow. Every dish is freshly cooked using high-quality ingredients, and our menus are accredited by the Early Years Alliance, so you can be sure your child is eating healthy, age-appropriate meals that support development.

Parents often ask, “Do nurseries cater for allergies or dietary needs?” Absolutely every Fennies meal plan is tailored to accommodate dietary requirements, preferences and cultural needs. Our chefs take care to make every child feel included and educators sit alongside the children to create a family-style dining experience where conversation and table manners naturally develop.

If you’d like to explore more about our approach to mealtimes, visit our Food & Nutrition page.

Do Children Nap Or Rest At Nursery?

After lunch, children enjoy a calm and restful period. Parents often ask, “Do children sleep at nursery, and what if my child doesn’t nap?” At Fennies, we respect every child’s individual routine. For those who need sleep, our rooms are designed to provide quiet, peaceful spaces where children can rest comfortably under the supervision of our team. For others, this time becomes a moment of quiet play. Whether that’s reading a book, listening to gentle music or exploring sensory resources.

Rest time helps children recharge, regulate emotions and prepare for an afternoon full of energy and imagination.

What Happens In The Afternoon At Nursery?

After a busy and exciting morning of learning and play, the afternoon at Fennies offers children the perfect balance of rest, nourishment and fresh opportunities for discovery. Many parents ask us, “What do children do in the afternoon at nursery?” Each part of the day is designed to support your child’s natural rhythm, ensuring they stay happy, engaged and confident from start to finish.

What Kind Of Learning Happens In The Afternoon?

As the afternoon unfolds, children continue exploring the world through play-based learning experiences. Many parents wonder, “How do nurseries help children learn new skills during the day?” At Fennies, our Curriculum & Pedagogy focuses on extending the morning’s learning through hands-on, purposeful activities that build on each child’s interests.

Children might work together on a science experiment or take part in a creative art. These activities support problem-solving, communication and social interaction, all key skills that prepare children for their next steps in education.

What Happens At Pick-Up Time?

As the afternoon draws to a close, children begin winding down with calm, reflective activities. Storytime or gentle group play helps them transition smoothly from nursery to home. When parents arrive, educators share a summary of the day that your child enjoyed most, what they learned and any special moments to celebrate.

Parents often say this is one of their favourite parts of the day, as it offers a glimpse into their child’s growth, friendships and confidence. For your little one, it’s also a chance to proudly share their day and look forward to the next.

Why Should Parents Choose Fennies Nursery?

If you’re exploring nursery options, you might be wondering, “Why choose Fennies for my child?” or “What makes Fennies different from other nurseries?”

At Fennies, everything we do is guided by one simple mission: to provide the right start for under 5s. With over 33 years of experience, purpose-built learning environments and expert educators, we create spaces where children and families can truly thrive.

We also offer flexibility and support through sibling discounts, extended hours, and Funding and Fees options designed to make quality childcare accessible for every family.

What Will My Child’s Journey Look Like At Fennies?

Every child’s Fennies journey is unique. However, what they all share is a sense of belonging, curiosity and joy. From the morning’s warm welcome to the friendly goodbye at pick-up time, each day is filled with learning opportunities that prepare children for school and life beyond.

To see it all in action, book a nursery tour today and discover why families across London, Surrey, Kent and beyond trust Fennies for their child’s early learning journey.