For most children, starting nursery is their first separation from their main carer. Starting in a new setting is a major event in a child’s life and this type of transition can be stressful for both children and parents.

At Bumbles we seek to ensure a smooth transition by working in close partnership with home and nursery, so that both the child and parent feel supported as they work towards feeling comfortable and at ease in the new setting.

We believe that it is important for staff to take time to get to know the children not only at nursery, but possibly in the home environment too. The settling in process will be structured in the following way;

Visit one will usually be when you view the setting, a detailed tour of the building should provide you will all the information you need. If not, please ask as many questions as you feel is necessary. 

We will always offer a home visit at this point, although we encourage this, it is not compulsory and completely up to the family if you would like to go ahead. During COVID we are offering zoom/video calls instead of home visits. 

Visit two will be an hour visit to the room your child will be in, during this hour we will encourage the parent/guardian to 'stay and play' and discuss your child's starting points with their key person.

Visit three will be a 1.5-2 hour session (depending on the child) where the parent/guardian can stay until the child is comfortable, then allow the child to explore the room independently. During this time you can enjoy a coffee and watch them on our CCTV system in the family room.

Visit four will be the child's first day. If the first two settling in sessions have not been a complete success, you will be given the opportunity to change the hours, however you feel is necessary. We are here to make the transition as easy as possible and will guide you and your child every step of the way.

We will hold a ‘Settling-in Review’ on or around session 6. This will be held between the manager/your child's key person and you. We will discuss how your child has settled in and how they are making progress, how you can support your child at home and any other ideas/concerns you may have. This can be a face to face meeting, a phone call or a video call.

We will work alongside your family to ensure the most smooth and relaxing experience for your child. If there is anything you are particularly worried about or you would like to discuss the settling in sessions, please do not hesitate to contact management on 01132572579.