A few days ago it was the blazing sun and now we have the rain. Wonderful!

In final preparation for re-opening, we thought we should answer some questions frequently asked by parents.

Q: How will cleanliness be maintained?

A: We moved the last pick-up to 5:30pm so we can deep-clean in preparation for the next day. Also, staff will be resuming early in the morning before children arrive to give all surfaces, toys and everything that can be handled a clean again. There are disinfecting wipes on all corners for easy access and use. We have purchased a massive big bowl for easy cleaning of all toys before children handle them.

Q: You do not have a big space. How many children will be there at a time?

A: We have reduced the number of children at same time in the setting by providing longer hours. So, for example, instead of children coming in 3 hours every day for 5 days to make up the 15 hours, we have given the child 2 full days. Less days, longer hours.

Q: Are children confined to a space all day?

A: It will be unfair to do that. Children will remain in their small groups and move around within the small groups. As they move from space to space, we are cleaning after them for the other group to use the space.

Q: Kids put things in their mouth all the time. How will this be controlled?

A: Children, especially babies putting things in their mouth, is their means of exploring and understanding the environment they are in. We will not and should not stop them from doing this. So, we have staff members hoovering and being watchful to clean immediately the toy or item is dropped by the child or no longer used. We use Milton to clean all toys put in the mouth. Follow us on Instagram @kiddieskottagestreatham to see how we deep-clean.

Q: How realistic is it that the beddings will be washed everyday?

A: We have a functional washing machine on site.

Q: Will toilet trips be supervised both for washing hands and cleaning after number 2?

A: Before the pandemic, children had always been advised on the need to wash their hands during discussion times i.e. circle time. Now more than ever before, this value will be reinforced. We have child friendly signs all around the nursery so children are reminded to wash their hands more than before. Toilet trips have always been supervised. For the pre-schoolers, we encourage them to clean themselves after number 2 and we assist if we notice they are struggling or have not done it properly. This is all in preparation for reception when they do not get any help with this aspect.

Q: There is a lot of stuff in a nursery. How will everything be disinfected?

A: We have taken out lots of stuff from the main hall. The room is airy, light and spacy. We hope to upload the pictures onto Tapestry. There are no drastic changes because we want our children to settle in easy but we have created more space. The resources/toys left can be easily cleaned.

Q: What about using the buggy shed?

A: As you drop your child, you will be given disinfecting wipes to clean the door handle of the buggy shed and the key before use.

Q: What happens if a staff or child develops symptoms of Covid-19?

A: If a child develops any of the known symptoms, they will be taken into the staff room and will remain with a member of staff who will wear full PPE until the parent arrives to pick the child up. The child’s parent will be called immediately. The guidance states that the parent should call 111 to get the child tested. If the child tests positive, parents of other children within this child’s group will be informed. The children and the staff will have to self isolate for 14 days. The setting will be deep-cleaned. If the child tests negative, nursery goes on as usual.

Please inform us of the result of your child’s test.

 

On other matters….

  • Since we usually close for one week during the summer, we will send out a survey to determine if you do not want us to close. In that case, we will remain open.
  • Fee-paying and lunch-paying parents will get an invoice at the beginning of the month. We will appreciate if the payment is made in full as soon as possible. We understand that this may be a challenge for some. Please have a word with Sherry or Attia or send us an email.
  • On the matter of lunch fee, this will be increased from £3 to £5.  Remember the children are staying longer hours; they will have mid-morning snack, lunch, wake-up snacks and tea. Also, please request a copy of the new menu. It will also be put on Tapestry for you.
  • If you have not provided indoor shoes, please do so and make sure they are labelled. Thank you.
  • We will continue to update you as best as we can on Tapestry but please do not take offence if you do not get it as regular as you would wish. Staff are having to do much more now.
  • If you require a copy of our risk assessment, response to Covid-19 policy or the operational guide, please email and we will send you a copy. There will be copies at the nursery too.
  • We do understand that these times are unprecedented (that word again!) Let’s work together to support the well-being of our little ones. I think that is more important now than anything else.
  • A parent declaration form will be sent to you digitally. Please fill in your name, date and click send.

Thanks for all your understanding and support.