Settling In

Getting Ready for Nursery

Rainbows@St Silas is open from 8am-5pm, with a morning session running from 8am-12.25pm and an afternoon session from 12.25pm until 5pm. We ask that you please collect your child ten minutes before the end of the session to ensure adequate time for a full handover. Please be considerate of meal times when arriving with your child to keep disruption to a minimum for the other children

Starting Rainbows

Starting at a new setting is exciting however we recognise that it can be a difficult time. We do everything we can to make this time as easy as possible for you and your child.

The settling in period is very important and we understand that children may be upset for a period of time. We know that it can be difficult to leave your child and understand the level of trust you are putting in us and we ensure we do all we can to give you and your child the best chance to settle in quickly. Our settling in period begins at least three weeks in advance to give you and your child plenty of time to become familiar with our staff and environment. After the first initial visit the length of the session will gradually increase, every child is different and the process will be unique to your child’s needs.

You will receive an ‘All About Me’ booklet, it is important to take the time to fill this in and bring in back to nursery as it gives your child’s key person a chance to learn more about your child, the more we learn the better we can plan for your child. If possible please use photographs as we share these with your child.

Your child will be allocated a key person. The key person is responsible for observing, planning, recording and tracking children’s progress.

When your child first attends nursery we will pay close attention to which adult they feel happy and

safe with and usually this will be their key person. The relationship between a child and their key

person is very special as it is here they find the security to build their confidence and become

competent learners.

First Day

There are a couple of things to remember to bring with you to nursery on the first day;

• Nappies; please supply enough for that session, we can store a pack of nappies in nursery if this is an easier option for you.

• Any formula milk your child will need.

• Wipes

• All About Me booklet

• Any comfort objects e.g. dummy, blanket, teddy

• Change of clothes

The most important thing to consider when dressing your child for nursery is that they are comfortable enough to play. We have a simple and comfortable uniform, even for our smaller babies, that you can choose to dress your child in for nursery. This can be purchased at the St. Silas school office.

Playing is often a messy business so your child may need to be changed, we ask that you provide a change of clothes for these instances.

No matter what the weather we enjoy playing outside. We ask that you please dress your child appropriately for the weather. Warm clothes and coats for cold days, we have waterproof suits and wellies here for when it gets rainy. Cool clothes, a sun hat and plenty of sun cream for those sunny days.

We hope our planned settle in session support all children and families on the transition into Nursery.