GMB lets you manage how your nursery appears in a Google Search and on Google Maps, allowing you to add a business name, location, hours of business, photos and also reviews!

Log into the Google Account you want associated with your business – if your email address ends in @gmail.com then this is a Google Account and you can log in with that. If you don't have a Google Account you'll need to create one first!

Once you're logged in, go to google.com/business and select Start now in the top right-hand corner.

To get started, enter your business name. Make sure this is the same as your tiney home nursery name so people will find you if they search for you directly.

You'll then be asked to add your business address. As you're likely working out of your personal home address, we advise you not to show this publicly and instead check Hide my address (it's not a store) – this will then only show the region you're operating in.

Next, you'll need to choose a business category. It's important to choose the most accurate category possible so you appear in relevant search results. We recommend choosing Nursery school or Childminder.

To finish off the basics, you'll then be asked for your business phone number (don't forget to keep this up to date!) and your website (use the link to your tiney profile!)

There are several ways to verify your account but the easiest way is to verify by postcard. First, make sure your business address is correct as this is where the postcard will be sent. If you're happy with the information, click Mail and the postcard should be sent to the address within a week (make sure you don't make any changes to your account during this time as it could delay the process).

Once you've received the postcard, log back into your Google My Business page and select Verify now. Then simply enter the five-digit verification code on your postcard and click Submit.

If your postcard doesn't show up, or you lose it, you can request a new code by clicking Mail again.

Once your business has been verified you can start adding photos and more information to your page (the fun bit!). Add as much information and media as you can to really sell your setting to potential families.

Start by adding a profile photo. Your profile photo will appear when you upload new photos, videos, or respond to reviews. Make sure the photo you choose is the same as the one on your tiney profile and marketing materials, so you're easily identifiable.

You then need to upload a cover image! This is one of the most important photos, as it's the most prominent on your business page, so try and pick a photo that really captures how great your home nursery is. For safeguarding reasons, be careful what photos you share when it comes to the children in your care. You can show how much fun they’re having without revealing their faces!

It's important to know that anyone can suggest an edit to your listing, so log into your Google My Business dashboard regularly to make sure all the details look right!

Once you're trading (or if you already are), ask your families to leave reviews on your business page. This will help engage any potential customers and give a more reliable insight into you and your setting.

Creating your Google My Business page may take a bit of time and effort but it really is an effective way to target local families and build your business. So have fun!