Working in Partnership with Families
We place great importance on building strong, collaborative relationships with parents and carers, as this shared approach plays a key role in every child's learning and development. We encourage families to stay actively involved in their child's journey at Stay and Play.
Our setting follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), a statutory framework that sets the standards for learning, development, and care for children from birth to five years old. All registered early years providers in England follow the EYFS to ensure a consistent and high-quality approach to early education.
The EYFS provides clear principles and guidance that support children's learning and wellbeing, giving families reassurance that their child's early education is underpinned by nationally recognised standards wherever they attend.
To keep you closely connected with your child's progress, we use a secure online learning journal called Tapestry. This allows you to view observations, celebrate achievements, and follow your child's development in real time. Families are also encouraged to contribute by sharing experiences from home, helping us to build a complete picture of each child's learning journey.
All records are stored securely within Tapestry, and when your child leaves Stay and Play, their learning journey can be provided to you as a downloadable record of their time with us.
Settling In
Starting at Stay and Play
We understand that starting nursery is a big step for both children and parents. To support a smooth transition, we offer settling-in sessions tailored to your child's needs.
These sessions help your child become familiar with their key person, the environment, and daily routines, ensuring they feel safe, secure, and confident before starting fully.
We will work closely with you during this period to ensure your child settles at their own pace.
A Typical Day at Nursery
Each day at Stay and Play is carefully planned to support learning through play, exploration, and structured activities.
Children take part in a balance of indoor and outdoor play, group activities, creative experiences, and quiet time. Daily routines also include snack times, lunch (where applicable), and opportunities for rest.
Our aim is to provide a calm, engaging, and stimulating environment where every child can thrive.
Food and Nutrition
We are committed to promoting healthy eating habits. Depending on your child's session, meals and snacks are provided or parents may be asked to supply them.
We cater for all dietary requirements and allergies and ensure all children receive balanced, nutritious options throughout the day.
Please speak to a member of staff if your child has any specific dietary needs.
What to Bring
To help your child have a comfortable day at nursery, please provide:
- A change of clothes
- Suitable outdoor clothing
- Comfort items (if needed for settling in)
Please ensure all belongings are clearly labelled.
Policies and Procedures
We operate a range of policies to ensure the safety, well-being, and smooth running of our nursery. These include safeguarding, behaviour management, health and safety, and illness policies.
All policies are available upon request.
School Readiness (for older children)
For children in our Monkey Room, we focus on preparing them for a smooth transition to school. This includes developing independence, confidence, early literacy and numeracy skills, and social development.
We work closely with children to ensure they feel confident and ready for their next stage of learning.