Settling

We understand how difficult it is for parent(s)/carers to leave their child(ren) with a childminder and return to work. We will therefore work with you to ensure your child(ren) settle and that you are happy with the care that we are to provide.

We like to organise settling in sessions for the child(ren) where needed, we do not encourage the parents/carers to remain at the setting for the settling in sessions as it makes it harder for the child to adjust to their new environment and can even upset the other children in our care. We also give you a child profile form to complete, this gives you the opportunity to provide us with lots of information about your child(ren), their likes and dislikes, routines, favourite activities, how to comfort them if they become upset and how they have reacted when left before. It gives us the opportunity to start to build a relationship with your child(ren) and to understand both your needs and wishes.

Some children do take longer than others to settle, and some settle quickly and then become distressed a few weeks into the placement. We will work with you to support your child(ren) through this transition period and make it as easy as possible. It is important that you and your child(ren) are relaxed and happy in our home and with the care we provide.

Some parents find it helpful to call/text us during the day to find out how their child(ren) is/are. We are happy to take your calls, but we are sometimes not able to talk for long, or even to answer the telephone if we are attending to a child’s personal needs, for example changing a nappy. So please do not panic if you call and there is no answer.

TinyTots will charge you for settling in sessions, the sessions will have to be paid for up front at the ad-hoc childminding rate. This fee will then be fully refunded to yourselves upon signing contracts. If you decide not to take up the placement the fees will not be refunded, please also see our child record form. If contracts have been signed and deposit paid prior to settling in there will be no charge for settling sessions, if however you child(ren) do not then settle or you decide not to take up the placement your deposit will be non-refundable.