An issue for me, that was never taken seriously is safety. If your nursery is not in a "convenient" location, it might make it difficult to get the children to safety if necessary. Let's assume this: the building has to be evacuated. Who is going to help with the children? You could end up with hoards of parents running to the nursery, causing more harm. If there are a number of TRAINED people in your congregation, then a disaster could be averted. (By trained, I mean certified by the hospital or Red Cross in CPR, how to use a fire extinguisher, etc. Most fire departments will conduct safety seminars free of charge.

One thing I would ask for in an addition is a safe place for severe storms. In the congregation I worked in children had to walk down a long hallway, go down two flights of stairs, passing two glass doors along the way. It would be much better to have reinforced rooms near the classrooms, or quick access to a safe place. Also, have well marked emergency exits.

All the things Jan suggested are good too, but I would add:
~ telephone for emergencies (not a cell phone)
~ weather radio
~ some kind of rapid information system to tell teachers quickly about approaching dangers, like a storm.

I know I sound grim, but I live in Tornado Alley and have had to take cover with the children on more than one occasion.

Keep us posted!

Blessings,

Julie Burton