OPEN DOOR
We operate an open door policy with children, parents and any relevant Health Board officials. We are delighted to see you at any time, however we ask you to understand that sometimes we may be very busy so it may not be possible to come directly to a ringing bell or phone. We ask you for your understanding in this. For more personal matters, the management/owner will be able to meet with you following a prearranged appointment.

ARRIVAL and DEPARTURE
Parents and carers MUST accompany their child to the door and make sure the child is left in the care of a staff member, before leaving. We ask you not to drop and go. If your child is collected by anyone other than a parent or authorized person, we MUST be informed in advance. We will require photo identificiation

If you have a change of address and/or telephone number, you MUST inform us immediately.

SETTLING IN
It is our policy to meet with parents/carers and child at least once before enrolment. Once the appropriate forms are completed and deposits paid, a start date will be arranged.

In regards to the settling-in, please discuss this with the manager when booking a place, as all children are different and individual, and what may suit one child, may not suit another.

POSITIVE BAHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT
Children are encouraged to behave in a caring, respectful way. We encourage turn-taking, waiting and sharing. Positive behaviour is always reinforced to encourage self-control, self-direction and the child’s self-esteem. Children are encouraged to be independent, to ask for help when needed and help each other.

Boundaries are set and consistent, encouraging respect and consideration for all. Parents/carers may be consulted in relation to their child’s behaviour in order that any difficulties can be worked out together. Difficult behaviour is dealt with through distraction or by changing the activity/environment.
(Also see Inappropriate Language/Behaviour Policy)

STAFF RATIOS
We adhere to the adult/child ratios as set by the HSE Pre-School Regulations (1996), amendments 2007. To maintain recommended good child care practice, we seek to provide a higher ratio where possible.

STAFF RATIOS
We adhere to the adult/child ratios as set by the HSE Pre-School Regulations (1996), amendments 2007. To maintain recommended good child care practice, we seek to provide a higher ratio where possible.

HEALTHY EATING
We support parents/carers to ensure the child has a healthy, varied and balanced diet. The children participate in a cooking activity each week, where they are encouraged to try foods from different parts of the world. This introduces different tastes and textures.

As well as being heavily involved in the serving of the foods, the children are encouraged to help with preparation. This encourages a good understanding of hygiene and basic nutrition. A dental nurse, who specialises in working with young children, visits at least once a year, to talk about food. This is further reinforced by class work and discussion.

Mealtimes are a positive and relaxed time. We believe that eating together provides encouraging experiences and is a great way to teach good social behaviour. We save our sweets and treats for special occasions such as birthday parties or Christmas etc, as well as introducing healthy alternatives.