Entry to the Nursery/Security/Drop off and Collection
Parents will be asked to complete a Collection Form naming those authorised to collect the child (NB: all children must be collected by a responsible person over the age of 18 years.) If there are any changes please inform a member of staff in advance to save embarrassment. We would also encourage parents/carers/guardians to ensure that all doors/gates are closed firmly behind them to comply with our safety regulations. There is a security system in place and all parents have been issued with a fob to access all areas. If you do not use your fob admittance to the nursery will be through the office. If you are an unfamiliar face please do not be offended if we ask for some identification.
When you arrive each day we would like you to discuss any particular news or requirements for the day ahead. Please try to leave enough time for a calm and gentle hand over of your child to a member of staff. It is essential that a parent or guardian leaves the child into nursery personally to prevent any mishaps or accidents. You must be responsible for holding your child’s hand when they are in the car park. Even when a child becomes of an age we will still expect you to leave the child into nursery.
Should someone who is unfamiliar to us be nominated by you to collect your child/children, you must follow these procedures:
Make a phone call to the nursery to make us aware of the changes
Ensure they bring photographic ID when collecting the child. This has been devised for family and friends that we have yet to meet.
If we do not receive any ID, staff will be expected to approach the manager, who will in turn contact the parent/guardian and make the final decision on the child's release, you may be asked to wait outside our door for security reasons.
Childhood Illnesses and Sickness
We follow the Public Health Agency’s guidelines for “Guidance on infection control in schools and other childcare settings” (download doc.)
Health & Nutrition
To grow up healthy and strong children need to eat a balanced diet. This means they need to get all the essential nutrients - protein, carbohydrate, fat, vitamins, minerals and water in the right proportions.
All parents will be asked to fill in an application form stating special dietary requirements which we shall follow through a healthy menu. If your child has a food allergy, please inform a staff member.
Meals
Our menu at Little Friends is developed to provide a nutritious, balanced and varied diet. We received 5 stars from the scores on the doors assessment and we prepare the meals on a daily basis using fresh produce when seasonally possible and an option will be given to children if they do not like what is on, on that day.
We can adapt menus to suit children with special dietary requirements. We do have a policy that all food served to the children should be made on the premises and do not allow parents to bring in ready-made dinners.
Meal times are pleasant occasions for all. Staff interact sensitively with children to encourage good eating habits and the appreciation of different foods. The staff assist where necessary and encourages self-help where appropriate.