Parent FAQs

A quick guide to the questions families ask most often.

If you ever need more information, just get in touch-we're always happy to help.

How do you help children settle in?

We offer a gentle, child-led settling-in process. Parents are welcome to stay during the first sessions and we gradually build up independence at both yours and your child's pace.

Can I stay with my child?

Yes. We encourage parents to stay until their child feels secure and ready.

What if my child becomes upset?

We comfort, reassure and use familiar routines. We will always contact you if your child is unable to settle.

What are your opening hours?

We are open 8.30am - 3.30pm, Monday to Friday, term time only.

Do you offer funded hours?

Yes- we accept 15 and 30 hours funding for eligible families.

Can I mix funded and paid sessions?

Absolutely. We can help you plan a combination that suits your family.

Are there any extra charges or hidden fees?

No- we do not charge for consumables, snacks, activities or resources. All funded and paid hours cover everything your child needs while they are with us. 

The only optional extra is hot dinners, which are supplied by the primary school and charged separately for families who choose to order them.

What to bring?

-A named water bottle

-A change of clothes

-Weather appropriate clothing ( coat, hat,sunhat)

-Nappies/wipes if needed.

Do I need to send snacks or lunch?

We provide snacks twice a day. Packed lunches are needed for children staying over lunchtime and who aren't having a hot dinner.

What should my child wear?

Comfortable, washable clothes suitable for messy play and outdoor learning.

When should my child stay at home?

Please keep your child home if they are unwell, have a temperature or are not themselves. Children should be kept at home for 24 hours after preschool jabs in case of any reaction.

How long after sickness/diarrhoea can they return?

48 hours after the last episode.

Can my child attend if they've just started antibiotics?

We ask that children stay at home for the first 24 hours after starting antibiotics. This gives the medication time to begin working and ensures your child is well enough to return to play,learning and group activities. It also helps reduce the spread of infection to other children.

Can my child come in if they've had Calpol or Nurofen?

No-if your child has had medication to manage a temperature, pain or illness symptoms we ask that they stay at home. These medicines temporarily mask symptoms and childen often become unwell again once they wear off. Keeping them home helps them recover properly and prevents the spread of infection to others.

How do you support children with additional needs?

We follow the SEN Code of Practice and offer tailored support, individual plans and close communication with families.

Do you work with outside professionals?

Yes-including SENIT, speech and language therapists,health visitors and other agencies.

Can my child have a One Plan or EHCP?

We work with you to gather evidence, complete paperwork and ensure your child receives the right support.

What curriculum do you follow?

We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage(EYFS) delivered through a warm, play-based, child-led approach. Alongside the EYFS we have our own simple, meaningful curriculum built around three core priorities-

Communication- developing strong language skills through conversation, stories, songs and high-quality interactions.

Independence- supporting children to do things for themselves, make choices, solve problems and build confidence.

Emotional Security- creating a calm, nurturing environment where children feel safe, understood and ready to learn.

How do you track progress?

Through observations, play interactions and developmental milestones. We share updates with you regularly.

Do you do formal assessments?

No formal testing- just gentle,ongoing assessment through play.

How will you keep me updated?

We communicate through:

-daily conversations

-Facebook updates

-Newsletters

-Parent meetings

-Individual learning updates

Can I speak to staff about concerns?

Always. We welcome open, honest communication.

Are staff trained in safeguarding?

Yes- all staff receive regular safeguarding training.

Do you have policies I can read?

Yes- safeguarding, behaviour, SEND, complaints and all statutory policies are available on request.

What if someone else is collecting my child?

Please let us know in advance. We will not release a child to anyone who is not authorised or who doesn't have your chosen password.

What if I'm running late?

Just call us- we understand things happen.

Do children go outside every day?

Yes- outdoor learning is a core part of our curriculum.

What if the weather is bad?

We dress appropriately and still enjoy outdoor play unless conditions are unsafe.

Does my child need to be toilet trained?

No- we support children at every stage.

Do you help with toileting routines?

Yes- we work with your child's needs and your home routines.

Do you cater for allergies?

Yes- we follow strict allergy-safe procedures.

Can you support dietary requirements?

Absolutely, just let us know.

Can I visit before enroling?

Of course, we love showing families around.