The Settling In Process
The settling in process is of vital importance to the smooth introduction of a child and parents into Rose Cottage. The purpose is for the child to gradually get to know their keyperson and to begin to form a bond together. It is also an important time to start building a relationship and rapport with the parent, essential if they are to feel able to trust us.
In the lead up to your child's start date, our nursery management will contact you to arrange your settling in sessions, usually three weeks before your start. Our settling in process is tailored to the needs of each child and their family. Our aim is for your child to be happy and content when you leave them on their first full day, and that you as parents have confidence that our practitioners are well on their way to building a bond with your child and being able to support and comfort them as needed.
Step by Step
Getting to Know Each Other
During the first settling in session, you will remain in the room with your child, meet the room team and complete the paperwork required to help the team get to know your child. It will also give the key person time to familiarise themselves with any special dietary requirements, preferences and food allergies before your child starts with us.
Building Confidence
In the second settling in session, you will remain in the room with your child for about half of the session and then spend time with the deputy nursery manager to finalise any remaining paperwork and give you another opportunity to ask further questions. This session will allow your child to explore their environment, knowing you are nearby for reassurance.
Growing Independence
During the third and subsequent sessions, we would request that you drop your child at the nursery. A few short sessions will build your child's confidence and familiarity. Further sessions are negotiated with the parent and the key person to determine frequency and duration, working towards your child having sleep and lunch/tea with us. Once your child is content and settled, we will agree your child's first full day at Rose Cottage.
In agreement with parents, where children have had prior experience in a similar setting, we may speed up this process a little.
What Your Child Will Need
Rose Cottage offers full daycare with meals included and all dietary requirements catered for. We ask parents to not bring food into the nursery to avoid any allergy issues.
Formula & Nappies
Please provide milk formula if your child needs it, as well as your own nappies. These will be kept in allocated areas and used only for your child.
Spare Clothes
In case of accidents or messy play, please provide a spare change of clothes. Keep the weather in mind — we use our outdoor areas every day.
Sun & Winter Essentials
In summer months, please provide sun cream and a sunhat. In winter, your little one will need a warm coat and cosy hat.
Medication & Allergies
If your child has known allergies and requires medication, please provide this and let us know of any medical needs. All belongings should be clearly labelled and packed in your child's nursery backpack.