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

Rainbows

Rainbows 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 1:7. Activities for this age are based on the Foundation Stage of the National Curriculum, which covers six main areas of learning:- Communication, language and literacy; Mathematics; Physical development; Creative development; Knowledge and understanding of the world; and Personal, social and emotional development. There is access to a computer, which is used to complement the monthly theme. The children are encouraged to gain independence, self-esteem and confidence in a play-based environment, where they can explore, imagine and create.
 

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

Throughout the nursery, we focus on the children "learning through play" in a relaxed, fun environment. They 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 daily diary for each child, as well as developmental records, which parents are welcome to read and contribute to at any time.