The children at Kiddiwinks are cared for in three main groups:

Rainbows

Our baby room caters for a maximum of 12 children from 3 months to 2 years, who are cared for on a minimum 1:3 staff ratio. We have two bright spacious rooms where walking and non-walking children can be accommodated separately if required. The toys and equipment are carefully chosen for the age and stage of development of the children. We place an emphasis on heuristic play, where the children develop their senses through exploring real life objects, and enjoy introducing them to messy and craft activities at a suitable stage. As well as lots of eye contact, cuddles and attention, the children are encouraged to develop and improve their language and physical skills. The children have separate cot rooms adjacent to the play areas, allowing them to sleep when needed during the day.
 

Caterpillars

Children move to the Caterpillars group at around age 2, where the staff ratio is 1:4. We continue to provide many varied learning experiences at this stage in a child's development, with daily opportunities for extending language skills e.g. by talking about letters, numbers, colours, shapes and feelings. Manipulative skills are encouraged with jigsaw puzzles, games, construction toys, playdough and lots of "mark making" opportunities. We offer lots of role-play and imaginative activities to support the development of sharing and social skills.
 

Butterflies

At age 3, the children progress to the Butterflies group, for our pre-school children, which is staffed on a ratio of 1:8. There is access to a computer, which is used to complement the monthly theme and extend learning opportunities. The children are encouraged to gain independence, self-esteem and confidence in a play-based environment, where they can explore, imagine and create. The children are supported and encouraged in activities to prepare them for the transition to infant or primary school.

*****************************************

Throughout the nursery, we focus on the children "learning through play" in a relaxed, fun environment. Activities are planned for the "next steps" in each child's individual learning, based on his/her interests, to meet the requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage. Children have the opportunity to take part in story time, music, songs, dancing, drama, science, cooking and numerous craft and messy activities on a regular basis. We have several outdoor play areas which offer a variety of larger equipment, and are used daily to develop physical skills. We have a monthly theme, which is covered by all the age groups and allows staff to plan a varied and stimulating programme of activities.

We keep a "Learning Journey" for each child to record his/her development, which parents are welcome to read and contribute to at any time.