|
Care Groups
Children are divided in to groups according to their
stages of development. As the younger groups need more
individual attention we adhere strictly to the ratio
of childcare worker to children as set out by the Health
Board. Each group has a different schedule which is
adapted for their stage. Every child is involved in
messy art which allows them experiment and express themselves.
We have found that learning to co operate and develop
self control is a hard thing for children to learn.
The carer's style of interaction needs to provide ongoing
support and encouragement. Adults who model care and
concern for others produce caring individuals which
is why it is so important to have qualified caring staff
in place.
| Babies (4 months - 1 year) |
| Babies have their own room which has
a tactile and hygienic flooring. They have materials
and equipment which aids their development. They
are stimulated in a learning capacity where there
is an element of holistic play in their equipment.
They have mirrors and tactile equipment and toys
to satisfy their natural curiosity. They have their
own sleeping and changing areas. They are nurtured
and loved in a bright and spacious area. Babies
receive a daily feedback book but parents are welcome
at any time to discuss their baby's ever changing
needs. |
 |
| |
| Wobblers |
|
 When
children are moving around but not that steady
we move them on to the wobblers room where they
can toddle, wobble or crawl to their hearts content.
They will be introduced to more equipment including
water and sand and their arts of work will be
hung up for all to admire.
Although the ratio of career to child is greater
as children move along we still acknowledge that
each group requires lots of attention and cuddles
and our staff are there to regularly provide these.
|
| |
| Toddlers (2 - 3 years) |
 Toddlers
have a variety of activities in place which encourages
them physically, intellectually, emotionally and
socially as they grow in independence. The relationship
between carer and the toddler is one of understanding
and expectation which is realistic and fair. The
changes in this group are by far the greatest where
friendships are sealed and rows abound! The boundaries
are set through clear guidance by the carer and
as children mimic adults lead by example. |
| |
| Pre School (3 - 4 years) |
|
 As
the children progress so too does their language
skills and as they are able to communicate more
clearly they are less frustrated as they are able
to partake in more activities It is at this stage
that parents notice that they can now work successfully
in little groups. The structure at this stage
is a balance between learning through play and
free play. They are encouraged to express themselves
through music and dance, and circle time which
comprises story time and mime.
At this stage we invite outside groups such as
"Fitkids" and "gymboree" to
bring their expertise to the centre where the
children enjoy all these groups offer.
|
| |
| Montessori (4 - 5 years) |
|
 We
encourage all children to attend Montessori class
for the last year before they go to big school.
This group has their own bright spacious area
incorporating specialised Montessori equipment
which promotes the child's sensory skills and
practical life equipment such as pouring water.
They learn through arts and crafts and they partake
in little projects which highlight the importance
of caring for the environment and the world about
us. They also learn respect for themselves and
others and it is through this child centred environment
that these children grow in independence, confidence
and self esteem.
|
| |
| After School Care |
|
 At
Busy Bees we understand that children are tired
after their day at school so the room is set out
to incorporate a chill out zone, an activity area,
a free play area where toys are provided, a library,
a computer room (IDA) and outdoor play area.
We will assist the children with their homework
and they will receive a hot meal when they come
in from school. The programme here is one of choice
although each day the carer will guide an arts
and crafts activity. It is important to remember
to move at the childrens pace and to remain flexible
with the daily schedule for these children.
|
| |
|
