What happens if my child forgets to go to the toilet?

From time to time these do happen. Children get engrossed in what they are doing and they leave going to the toilet until the last minute. We make no fuss about it but simply reassure the child and change them into something dry.

However, if your child has sickness and/or diarrhoea, they must not come to nursery, but must stay away until 48 hours after recovery. E. coli can stay in the system for this length of time and even children without symptoms may still be carrying the bug.

What if she cries when I'm not there?

Your child's emotional needs are just as important as any other area of development. Your child will be given the support and comfort that she/he needs. Please be reassured - if your child is upset at any time and can not be settled we will ring you.

Do the children sleep in the afternoon?

No, INS is an educational environment the curriculum continues throughout the day.

How can I help my child learn?

You have already taught your child a great deal. You can continue that help by showing an interest in their education and sharing their school life. We display information on our weekly themes and sometimes send ideas home via the liaison books. Praise their efforts and take time to listen. Sharing books is one if the most important things you can do, and talking to them!

What do they wear?

We use strong glue and thick paint - although we insist that children wear the aprons provided - they can still mark clothes. Please dress your child in practical clothes so that they can make full use of all the activities. Coats etc should be clearly marked with your child's name to avoid mix-ups.

What happens if my child is ill at nursery or if my child gets hurt?

You are asked to leave an emergency number in addition to your own contact number. If your child is ill we will use these numbers to contact an adult to take the child home.

Can they bring their toys with them?

We discourage children from bringing their own toys to nursery in case they get lost or broken. However, we would prefer the child to come with a 'comfort' toy than not at all. The child is usually confident enough to discard it after a while.

How can i help my child to settle?

Different children need different approaches. Take your lead from the members of staff who have had many years experience of settling children. You can help your child by saying goodbye and explaining that you will come back after a short while and by returning on time. Five minutes is a long time for an anxious child! If your child does not settle we will contact you.