Frequently Asked Questions from Parents

These questions and answers cover a wide range of important areas including Nutrition, Settling-in, Toilet Learning, Fees & Sessions, Early Years Funding and much more. These are typical questions parents ask when considering a nursery place for their children. 

If you have a specific question that is not listed here, please contact the nursery by email: office@smithschildren.co.uk or call us on 01223 301047. 

Choose from Questions 1 - 13 (Scroll down to find the answers)

1. Admission and Enrolment 

What is the age requirement for nursery admission?

Most nursery’s have specific age criteria, typically requiring children to be between 6 months to 4 years of age by the start of the academic year. Specific age cut-offs may vary depending on the type of nursery.

What information is needed for the registration / enrolment?

Commonly required documents include a registration form, vaccination records, specific dietary requirements, known allergens and other relevant information such as full name, address, parent information and contact details.

What is the application process?

The process generally involves completing an enquiry form, submitting required documents, visiting the nursery, completing a registration form, and paying the registration fee.

Is there an admission test or interview for the child?

There is no admission test or interview for the child.

2. Communication with Parents

How do I find out about my child’s day?

We have the ParentZone App, which provides updates throughout the day regarding sleep times, meals, and pictures of activities. This is also how we share developmental reports, two-year checks, and transition-to-school reports with parents. 

The ParentZone app is available for download

Google Play

App Store 

How we communicate with parents about their child’s progress?

We use the Iconnect/ParentZone system to keep parents updated on their child’s development, offering regular digital updates and communication.

Where can I find upcoming events?

You can find details on upcoming events via the parent notice board, monthly newsletters, the ParentZone app, and our website.

3. Curriculum and Activities

What is our curriculum and teaching approach?

We follow the Montessori method of education, emphasising child-led learning, holistic development, and creating a supportive environment for children to initiate learning.

How is Montessori different from mainstream education?

Montessori education focuses on child centered learning, development across all areas (social, emotional, physical, cognitive), and hands-on, self-paced learning. Mainstream education tends to be more teacher-centered, with a focus on academic achievement and standardized goals.

What is the teacher-to-child ratio?

We maintain a low teacher-to-child ratio to ensure personalised attention and care for each child.  Ensuring that the legal requirements are met, children under 2 is one adult to three children, children aged two are one adult to five children and children aged three and over are one adult to eight children.

Does the setting ever go for walks?

Yes, we regularly visit local parks, markets, museums, and other nearby locations. We take advantage of the area around us, and even rainy days can be an opportunity for an outdoor adventure.

4. Fees and Early Years Funding

What are the fees, and what do they cover? Do you offer funding for under 3?

The fee's are structured based on the age of your child. Fee's include a retainer fee equivalent to the fees for the starting month which acts as security to secure your childs place, and a registration fee.

We are pleased to offer funding for children under 3 years old, subject to availability. For a detailed fee structure and to understand all costs involved, please refer to our Fee schedule. 

Does funding start from my child’s birthday?

Funding may start if your child’s birthday falls before the start of the funding term. It’s important to note that funding is provided based on term times, and the specifics of your child’s eligibility will be discussed during the enrolment process.

When can I apply for a funding code?

You can apply for a funding code 30 days before starting work or 30 days before your child’s birthday. Please be aware that deadlines for obtaining funding codes are 31st March, 31st August, and 31st December.

Where do I go to find out if I am eligible for funding?

To check your eligibility for funding, we have put all the necessary information together in one place. > Early Years Funding

When can I expect an invoice? 

Invoices are issued monthly in advance, usually around the 18th of each month. This provides ample time to setup a payment using online banking, submit a tax free childcare payment.

When should payment be made by? 

Payments should be made by the last working day of the current month. 

5. Childcare Vouchers

Do you accept childcare vouchers?

We accept childcare vouchers from many different schemes. Find out more

6. Tax Free Childcare

Do you accept payment via Tax-Free Childcare?

Yes, we do. We kindly ask that you send us your Tax-Free Childcare reference code so we know payments receipt come from you. This enables us to update your invoice accounts accurately. > Tax Free Childcare

7. Discounts

Do you offer any discounts on nursey fees?

We offer a sibling discount of 10% to the eldest child, which increases to 20% when 3 chidlren attend the nursery. Find out more 

8. Meals and Healthy Snacks

Is the food cooked onsite?

Yes, meals are prepared onsite by or nursery chef, with children participating as "Chefs of the Day" to make healthy snacks for themselves or their peers. > Nutrition

Will you wean my baby?

We support the method of weaning you've chosen. After receiving written confirmation of foods introduced at home with no reactions, we will incorporate them into our meals.

9. Sleep and Rest Time

How do babies and toddlers rest during the day?

We strive to replicate the routine you have at home. If your baby follows a two or three nap schedule, we will do our best to accommodate that here, though some adjustment is expected as the baby settles.

10. Settling-In

How does the nursery handle the settling-in period?

We implement a phased introduction over three days.

Day one: involves gathering information about your child’s preferences and routines.

Day two: your child spends time with their peers, while you stay nearby.

Day three: your child spends 2.5 hours with us, including lunch.

After two weeks, we will confirm a key person based on who your child bonds with the most.

11. Toileting Learning and Development

I am unsure of when to start toileting; what should I look for?

Signs that your child may be ready for toileting include reacting to being wet or soiled, hiding when urinating or having a bowel movement, staying dry for longer periods, or showing interest in the toilet or potty.

But I don’t feel ready to toilet my child.

It's easier to toilet when your child shows interest, rather than waiting. We are here to support you through the process. Please provide several changes of clothing that your child can easily manage. Though there may be challenges initially, children typically adapt quickly as they learn to recognize their needs.

12. Parent Community

How can I get to know other parents?

We host yearly summer picnics with a graduation celebration. Additionally, we will soon introduce regular morning and afternoon gatherings every three months for parents to connect and build a community.

13. Policies and Procedures

What are Policies and Procedures?

Policies and procedures are the guidelines and rules that help govern how an organization operates. In the context of a nursery or early childhood setting, these are established to ensure the safety, well-being, and consistent care of all children. Policies typically define what actions should be taken in certain situations, while procedures detail the steps involved in carrying out those actions.

Examples of Policies and Procedures in our Nursery Setting Include

• Safeguarding and Child Protection: Ensuring the safety and welfare of children.

• Health and Safety: Covering practices like fire drills, accident reporting, and hygiene standards.

• Absence Procedures: Outlining what to do if a child or staff member is absent.

• Behaviour Management: Guidelines for promoting positive behaviour and handling behavioural issues.

• Confidentiality: Ensuring that all personal information is kept private and secure.

• Equal Opportunities: Promoting inclusivity and preventing discrimination.

• Complaints Procedure: The steps parents can take to raise any concerns or complaints.

These policies and procedures provide a framework for both staff and parents, ensuring a safe, effective, and supportive environment for all children.