Admissions and Settling In

Admissions:

After initial communications with the parent, I would arrange for:

· An introductory meeting, to discuss your requirements and expectations and to show you around my home.

· Offer of further information with more specific details relating to the family’s needs and supplying the parent with a copy of my policies and procedures documentation.

· Allow time for family and myself to consider possibility of the child being placed in my care.

· If applicable agree and complete relevant documentation including contact details and parental permission forms.

· I provide a 4-week trial period under a temporary contract; this is to ensure all parties are happy with the arrangements.

· Agree a start date and timescale “settling in period”.

· Arrange for any other documentation to be completed and signed and copies to be given to the parent.

Settling In Procedure:

Once you have made your decision, I find that a “Settling In” period works best for children to be introduced to the childcare setting gradually.

I make it my priority to ensure that children feel happy and safe in my home. To help them settle in, I will:

· Encourage parents to visit without their child. This allows you to spend time getting to know me and my family and ask questions about my setting and services I offer.

· Encourage parents to visit with their child one or two times prior to the child being placed in my care.

· Allow the child to stay for several short periods without a parent, steadily increasing the duration each time.

· Allow parents to telephone or text me during the day if they have any concerns.

· Welcome any comfort toys which provide essential emotional support to those who need them. These toys or objects will be treated with respect and encouraged for as long as they are needed.

· Ask parents to give me as much information as possible about their child's likes and dislikes, as well as any fears and areas of distress.

· Encourage other children to be welcoming and supportive to any new child. This will be done through talking and activities that promote teamwork and taking turns.