The Starfish Room - Ages 0 – 1 year
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Nursery Philosophy
The nursery aims to provide a nurturing, caring and safe environment for all our children to learn, grow and develop.
The children are provided with stimulating experiences and meaningful activities that cater to their individual needs and further develop their natural curiosity, which allows them to explore the world around them.
At Pedder Patter we believe that children Belong first to their families and that the families are the most important people in our children's lives. We believe it is essential for staff to foster relationships with families to allow collaboration in guiding children through their development.
We understand that children are individual Beings, and while it is important to build and maintain relationships with others, we acknowledge the uniqueness of every child in an atmosphere of respect, allowing them to engage the joys and complexities of life throughout their physical, cognitive and social development.
In acknowledging the philosophy of Belonging, Being and Becoming, we believe that our nursery reflects the process of rapid and significant change that occurs in the early years as your child learns and grows. Becoming, to us, emphasises learning to allow participation fully and actively in society so that every child has the chance to reach their full potential.
General Information
Star Fish Room Carer: Keisha
Ratios: The Star Fish Room ratio is one carer to five children up to twelve months of age with on full-time carer.
Relief carers are kept the same to ensure the babies feel comfortable and secure.
Meals
All bottles must be clearly labelled with the child's name.
We ask that parents pre-mix their child's formula bottles before arriving at care.
The centre provides the babies with a hot lunch and snacks throughout the day, drinks (milk and water are freely available).
Please inform us of any special dietary requirements, our kitchen will cater for your child's needs. The Nursery is provided with a variety of vegetables everyday and a small amount of the days main dish (the menu is displayed above the sign in sheets and in the room). Stewed fruit can also be provided for morning and afternoon tea. If you would like your child to have breakfast or tea, this will have to be provided, including any milk and/or spreads. Breakfast will be stopped being given after 8.30am.
Things Parents need to supply
If your baby is having bottles, they need to be provided by the parents.
It is advisable to pack a few changes of clothes. (please label all items of clothing)
A hat for sunny days, as we love to go outside and explore.
ALL nappies are supplied by the centre unless parents stipulate otherwise. (e.g. cloth)
Outside Time
On occasions we do venture outside, so it would be appreciated if parents could please supply a hat/beanie (appropriate to season) and shoes if needed. (named)
Sunscreen is supplied, yet if a special type is preferred or for allergy reasons it will need to be supplied by the parents please (labelled)
Medical Instruction Sheet
If your child requires medication whilst in care, you will be required to fill out the Medical Authorisation Form (located in the Nursery). Please ensure that the form is filled in correctly, as we are unable to give medication if there is an error (please see the medication policy). Medications MUST NOT be left in the child’s bag, please leave them with a carer who will place them in the appropriate area. Medications are to be signed both in and out at either end of the day.
Daily Information
At the end of each day you will receive an information sheet where you will be able to read how your child’s day has been. This provides you information regarding sleeping eating, experiences and drinks/bottles.
Programme Planning
The centre follows the Belonging, Being and Becoming Framework which supports a model of curriculum decision-making as an ongoing cycle. This involves educators drawing on their professional knowledge, including their in-depth knowledge of each child. Working in partnership with families, educators use the Learning Outcomes to guide their planning for children’s learning.
The room carer will be off the floor for two hours a week to plan for each child. Programme planning involves both carer and parent input to determine children’s individual interests, skills and emerging abilities. Informal chats about your child’s development and care, play an important role in planning.
Carers use parental input and observations of the children to plan a programme of experiences which will best assist the enjoyment and development of each child in care. The programme is displayed in the room for parents to view and to make comments. Each child has an individual file (electronic), which contains all observations and planning. Parents are welcome to read their child’s file – simply ask the carer.
Communication Book
A communication book is located on the room bench for parents to leave any important information for the day in, or to just leave a message to the carer.
Transition to next age group
As your child gets older, the carers will start to introduce him/her to the next room. (Rainbow Fish Room) This is done through visits with the carer or a visit by themselves for a few hours at a time, this is for your child to get used to the new surroundings. Your room carer will discuss this with you before the visits happen. You will be given a form that informs you that visits will start to happen when possible. (If you have any concerns please talk to your room carer or the Director.)
CONTACT US
You can contact us on 03 6344 9993 during business hours, or email us at childcare@pedderpatter.org.au.