Important information For Parents

Dropping Off and Picking Up

Our Breakfast Club Starts at 8:00am. Otherwise, a staff member will be at the door from 9:00–9:15am and again at 3:00pm for home time; if you arrive outside these times, please wait for a staff member or pre-arrange drop-off/collection, then ring the bell and we’ll bring your child out—these steps help us maintain strong security.

What to Bring

Clothing & Footwear:

  • Dress your child in easy-to-manage clothes suitable for messy play, outdoor activities, and the weather (e.g., coats, woolly hats, sunhats).

  • Footwear should be practical and weather-appropriate.

  • Wellies and wetsuits are provided for outdoor play.

Daily Essentials:

  • Bring a backpack with 2 full changes of clothes, including socks.

  • For children in nappies, include changing essentials: nappies, wipes, and nappy cream.

  • Please note: Our supply of spare clothes is very limited, so spares are essential.

Drinks:

  • Provide a named drinks bottle filled with water (no squash or juice).

  • Bottles will be refilled with water during the day as needed.

Sun Protection:

  • Apply sunscreen before arrival during warmer weather.

  • Send in a clearly named bottle of sunscreen for reapplication by staff throughout the day.

Important Reminder:

  • Label all items with your child’s name to avoid loss or mix-ups..

First Time Settling In

Every child at Little Deers is assigned a key person to support them as they settle in and throughout their time with us. We understand that each child is unique, so we tailor our approach to suit their individual needs.

Parents or carers are welcome to stay for up to 30 minutes during the first session to help their child feel comfortable. After this, your child’s key person will discuss next steps—whether that's leaving them for a short time or the remainder of the session. This flexible approach can be repeated as needed on your child’s booked days.

We keep in close contact during the settling-in period to ensure a smooth, positive start for both you and your child.

Security and Safety

The Pre-school room is secured at all times with a keypad entry system, chain lock, double lock, security alarm, and video doorbell. Entry is only granted by a staff member after the doorbell is rung, and staff also assist with exiting. The external area is safely enclosed, with children supervised at all times according to the appropriate staff-to-child ratio. If someone other than a parent is collecting a child, prior notice must be given to staff, and a password system will be used to ensure only authorized individuals can collect the child.

Nut Free Setting

The number of children with serious nut allergies is increasing. Our setting is completely nut-free to ensure the safety of all children.

What This Means for Packed Lunches:

  • Do NOT include any whole nuts or nut products in your child’s lunch.

  • Common nuts to avoid (not a full list):

    • Peanuts

    • Almonds

    • Brazil nuts

    • Cashews

    • Hazelnuts

    • Pecans

    • Pine nuts

  • Please check all food labels carefully before packing.

If You’re Unsure:

  • Ask a member of staff to check any product you're unsure about.

Our Commitment:

  • Staff also follow these same guidelines—we’re all in this together.

  • We understand this can be challenging at times and truly appreciate your support in keeping all children safe.