At Tommies, we believe in a consistent and positive approach to managing the behaviour of children in our nurseries.

We see behaviour as communication. We acknowledge that young children experience big emotions and express themselves in different ways. After all, their social and emotional skills are, as yet, undeveloped.

We aim to keep children continuously engaged in activities that contribute to their ongoing learning. We will also regularly create new environments for children that are stimulating, motivating and encourage learning and development.

At Tommies, we employ strategies to ensure that all children develop a sense of right and wrong, and care and consideration for others. We believe that positive reinforcement and focusing on good behaviour is the best way to guide a child’s behaviour.

Young children often follow the example of those around them, including staff. We need children to understand what is expected of them within the nursery setting, therefore staff members act as positive role models, showing children how and why things are done. Communication or instructions should be clear, concise, and polite. Children need to observe good behavioural models and then copy such activities such as sharing, taking turns, listening, and showing mutual respect.

Within our settings, children will be encouraged to recognise that bullying, fighting and hurting is not acceptable behaviour. Children are encouraged to respect others, demonstrate a caring attitude, and recognise the difference between right and wrong. As much as possible, children are encouraged to follow the Golden Rules of the setting, therefore widening their awareness and understanding of the importance of structure and co-operation.

We understand that there may be times where your child may need medication when with us. This will be at the discretion of the nursery manager.

If agreed, you’ll be asked to complete a medication record detailing the directions for administering the medication. Medication will only ever be administered in line with the manufacturer or prescription guidance.

We allow one dose of Calpol provided by the nursery to be administered for high temperatures only.

A child must not have their first dose of medication at nursery. We ask that parents wait at least 12 hours after starting a course should any side effects become evident.

Nurseries adopt the policy of a ‘well child’ to decide whether your child is well enough to be at nursery. A child who is well is defined as:

If your child is considered not well enough to be at nursery you will be called to collect your child.

One of the emergency contacts listed on your registration form can collect your child, however for their protection you must advise the nursery before this can be authorised.