Admission ongoing for 2026/2027 session
Early Years · 5 min read

What Is the Best Age to Start Nursery School in Nigeria? A Parent's Guide

Wondering when to enrol your child in crèche or nursery in Lagos? Learn typical ages, signs your child is ready, and how to make the first weeks easier.

Quick answer

Many Nigerian families enrol children in crèche from infancy to age 2, nursery at about age 3, and Primary 1 at about age 6. The best time depends less on the calendar and more on your child's readiness and your family's needs.

Children learning with Montessori number materials in a Montessori classroom at Ambassadors Bilingual School

Typical ages at each stage

  • Crèche / day care: from a few months old to about 2 years.
  • Preschool / Nursery 1 and 2: about 3 to 5 years.
  • Primary 1: about 6 years, in line with national policy.

Signs your child is ready for nursery

  • Can be away from you for a few hours without lasting distress.
  • Shows curiosity about other children, books and songs.
  • Can follow simple instructions, such as "come here" or "put it there".
  • Is working towards toilet independence (many schools help with this).

Making the first weeks easier

Visit the school together beforehand, keep goodbyes short and cheerful, and be consistent with pick-up times. A warm, safe setting helps; Ambassadors Bilingual School offers crèche and nursery in a serene environment with Montessori rooms designed for little ones.

Frequently asked questions

Is 2 years too early for school?

Not necessarily. A good crèche programme is play-based and caring; the key is the quality of the environment.

What is the difference between crèche and nursery?

Crèche is care and early stimulation for the youngest children; nursery adds structured early learning such as phonics and numbers.

Does the school admit preschool and nursery children?

Yes. Ambassadors Bilingual School admits into crèche/preschool, nursery, primary and secondary. Call +234 816 437 7987.

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Ready to visit Ambassadors Bilingual School?

Admission is open for 2026/2027. 63, Adewale Adegun Street, by Bible Pattern Church, After Harmony Estate Gate, Karaole Estate, College Road, Ifako-Ijaiye, Lagos State, Nigeria.

Call +234 816 437 7987

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