Induction

We recognise that all children are different in the way they react to a new environment, and so we encourage parents to stay with their child for short periods of time until both parent and child feels comfortable and confident about being left in nursery, these are called inductions.

We ask that all parents carryout at least one induction session, although we do not limit the number of induction sessions needed before the child starts nursery.

1st Induction

The parent and child both attend a pre-planned nursery session (this session normally lasts for 1 hour). During this session the parent and child will play alongside the other children and the key worker will provide support. Once the child is settled the parent may leave the nursery for a short period of time before the session ends. During this time the child will be engaged in play and reassured of the parent’s return.

All children are individual, and some children may take longer to settle than others. The Nursery team is experienced and receptive to the children’s needs and in situations where children find it difficult to settle, we give lots of reassurance and cuddles and distract children with play, if however, they do continue to be upset we will shorten the induction sessions and, where possible, an increased number of shorter sessions will be put in place to build their confidence and trust. Your child’s key worker will be on hand to give advice on settling in strategies.

Healthy Eating

We understand how important a healthy lifestyle is for our growing children, and that good nutrition plays an essential role in our children’s learning. A well-balanced diet and plenty of exercise improves our children’s concentration as well as giving them bags of energy to play and learn.

Our Snacks

The nursery is committed to provide healthy snacks for our children both morning and afternoon prepared by the nursery staff and children. We plan our snacks by incorporating fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables, a carbohydrate with every snack and a choice of milk or water.

The snacks that we provide will be;

• Fresh and eaten on the day of preparation

• Will not have added salt or sugar

• Be free from harmful additives and preservatives

We avoid using processed foods in our snacks and a vegetarian option is always available. Your child’s key worker will work closely with you and your child’s individual dietary requirements.

Lunch boxes

To continue our commitment of healthy food for our children we encourage parents to replace chocolate bars with fruit and juice drinks with water.

Snack Times

Not only are snack times opportunities to refuel healthy minds and bodies but it is also a time of learning. Mealtimes provide an excellent opportunity to learn essential social skills such as listening, sharing, talking and independence, as well as motor skills.

During snack times children are encouraged to count the number of children and give out plates and cutlery. They are encouraged to pour their own drinks and help clean up after themselves.

Snack times are social times and so with adult support children are encouraged to talk about their food, where it came from, shape, tastes and texture and to share eating experiences from their own cultures.

Drinks

We ask for every child to be provided a water bottle which can be refilled throughout their session. We supply milk and water at snack times.

Weaning

Weaning can be a difficult and daunting time. We are available for advice and information and are able to support our parents with contacting professionals who can guide you on safe weaning.