Stages of transition
Our settling-in process is divided into several stages to ensure both you and your child feel supported:
- Stage 1: The Welcome Visit – An informal, 30-minute visit at the setting for you to meet us and see the environment without commitment. We will provide a welcome pack and discuss initial questions.
- Stage 2: Induction Visit – A 45-minute session held either at your home or at the setting. We focus on your child’s specific interests and needs, and share important documents such as policies and risk assessments.
- Stage 3: First Settling-in Session – A 45-minute session at the setting where the parent stays with the child. During this time, we finalise paperwork, verify your child's identity with a birth certificate or passport, and sign the contract.
- Stage 4: Second Settling-in Session – A 90-minute session where your child begins to practice independence. You will stay for the first 15 minutes, leave for one hour, and return for a 15-minute review.
- Stage 5: Third Settling-in Session – This session lasts 2 hours and 15 minutes. Your child stays independently for two hours (including snack time) followed by a final review of the settling-in process.
- Stage 6: Moving to Contracted Hours – If your child is ready, additional sessions can be arranged, or we will set a formal start date for their contracted hours.
Trial period and payments
The first four weeks of the contract serve as a trial period. This allows all parties to ensure the setting is the right fit. During this time, the agreement can be terminated by either party with 24 hours' notice. A review meeting is held at the end of these four weeks to check in before proceeding to permanent contracted hours.
Settling-in sessions are charged at our standard hourly rate for the time your child is in our care independently. There is no charge for the initial Welcome, Induction, or the First Settling-in sessions.
Meeting individual needs
We work collaboratively with you to understand your child's unique requirements, home routines, and sleep patterns.
- Personal Belongings: Children are encouraged to bring a bag with spare clothing and a 'treasure' or comfort item to help them feel secure.
- Key Person Role: As a sole provider, we act as the designated key person for every child, taking responsibility for their emotional well-being and tracking their learning and development.
- Communication: We maintain accurate and secure records, including the 'Getting to know your child' form, to ensure our care evolves alongside your child's needs. All personal and medical information is stored confidentially.