Every child is different, and some children may need a little more time and reassurance to feel comfortable in their new environment. This is completely normal, and our team will work closely with you and your child to help them feel safe, secure and happy at Brookside.

• We often find that children settle more easily once their parent or carer has said goodbye and left. Our practitioners can then gently support and reassure them, offering a favourite activity, story or something interesting to explore.

• Your child is very welcome to bring a familiar comfort item from home, such as a teddy, doll or cuddly toy, if this helps them to feel more secure.

• During the settling-in period, please ensure that your mobile phone is switched on and that you are contactable, just in case we need to get in touch.

• Please try to arrive on time for collection, particularly during your child's first few weeks. Waiting after other children have been collected can sometimes feel unsettling when a child is still becoming familiar with their new routine.

• We will keep you informed about how your child is settling and will work together with you if they need any additional support or a more gradual approach.

Our aim is to build a trusting relationship with both you and your child, giving them the time, reassurance and support they need to develop a sense of belonging and confidence at Brookside.

At Brookside, children are encouraged to explore, create, get messy and enjoy the outdoors, so practical and comfortable clothing is best!

• We use paint, glue, water, mud and lots of other messy materials as part of our everyday play and learning, so please avoid sending children in their best clothes.

• We encourage children to develop independence and self-help skills, so please choose clothing that they can begin to manage themselves, particularly when using the toilet, getting changed or preparing to go outdoors.

• Please clearly name all belongings, including clothing, coats, bags, shoes and lunch boxes. This makes it much easier for us to reunite belongings with their owners.

• Children are encouraged to wear our Brookside uniform, although this is not compulsory. Brookside polo shirts and fleeces are available to purchase.

• Please provide a pair of wellington boots so that children can enjoy outdoor play and exploration in all weathers.

• During the winter months, we ask children to have a pair of indoor shoes or slippers to change into when needed.

We believe there is no such thing as bad weather, just the need for the right clothing. We want children to feel comfortable and confident getting involved in everything Brookside has to offer.

Regular attendance and arriving on time helps children to feel secure in their routines, build relationships and get the most from their time at Brookside.

• If your child is unwell and unable to attend preschool, please contact us before 9am on each day of absence to let us know.

• If your child has experienced vomiting or diarrhoea, they must remain at home until they have been clear of symptoms for 48 hours. Please see our Sickness and Illness Policy for further information.

• Please let us know in advance about any planned holidays or other absences, so that we can record the reason for your child's absence appropriately.

• We kindly ask families to arrive on time for their child's session. A prompt arrival helps children settle into the routine alongside their friends and means they don't miss valuable opportunities for play and learning at the beginning of the day.

Thank you for helping us to maintain consistent routines and a happy, settled start to the day for all of our children.