Settling In

We want children to feel safe and happy in the absence of their parents, to recognise other adults as a source of authority, help and friendship and to be able to share the new learning experiences enjoyed at St James Cottage.

Our settling-in policy aims to help parents/carers to help their children to feel comfortable at St James Cottage, to benefit from what we have to offer, and to be confident that their parents/carers will return at the end of the session.

In order to accomplish this, we will:

• Encourage parents/carers to visit St James Cottage with their child prior to starting nursery.

   

• Agree with parents/carers how we will introduce and settle a child into the group.

   

• Provide a book to record how a child has settled in and any issues that may arise from parents or staff.

   

• Introduce new children in small numbers over a period of time.

   

• Ensure the individual needs of the child and family are met.

   

• Give each child the adequate time and support needed to settle.

   

• Re-assure parents who are anxious about their child by giving them information about their child’s activities and welfare during the session.

   

• Encourage parents/carers where possible to separate from their child for brief periods at first then gradually build up to longer absences.

   

• Recall a parent if the child is distressed or unable to settle.