About unsupervised DS at nursery

[DappledThings]

I think I probably am and it's just one of those things that had no bad outcome but I'd like some other opinions.

Arrived at nursery this afternoon and all children and staff were out in the garden. Greeted by staff who said DS (18 months) was "around here somewhere!" I couldn't see him and after a second had that lurching fear that I tried to be rational about. Went inside to see if someone had taken him for a nappy change and then heard him laughing his socks off. He'd followed one of the older children in and they were happy playing peekaboo round doors. One staff member who had come with me was clearly relieved they were both there.

I said my goodbyes as normal, met DH outside and told him the story. Both of us had the reaction of feeling it wasn't OK but not a big enough deal to take further.

Not sure what I'm asking really but am I overreacting to still be feeling a bit disturbed about it now or underreacting by not mentioning it? I have no idea how long he and the other child were alone inside.

At our nursery, they have an enclosed outdoor area so on warm days they open the doors and the older toddlers (2+) can go in and out as they please. However, there is always a staff member on both inside and out and the younger ones are either playing inside or taken outside in their group, they do not have the 'free flow' option.

I would not be particularly happy that my 18 month old was not accounted for.

No that is not ok at all.

I would feel extremely uncomfortable about that whole situation.

I am seriously chilled about my kids at our nursery but I would be unhappy about that.

As others have said staff are always spread inside and out as needed, to the point of collecting up a couple when bums need changing etc.

Thanks for replies. I think I'll drop the manager an email tomorrow just to mention it.