Parent Info
getting started
what to bring
Every day is a new opportunity for learning and fun at Creative Garden and we like to make sure everyone is as prepared as possible for whatever adventures may come along! Here’s everything you need to know about ensuring your child arrives with everything they will need.
Parents need to bring the following items in a named bag:
- At least two named changes of clothes.
- Special comfort items that will help support your child with settling and sleeping.
- A named wetbag for soiled clothing.
- Sun/Winter hat and warm waterproof outside clothes in winter.
- Breast milk or formula along with named bottles (if required).
- Several pairs of spare socks each day.
clothing
All clothing, shoes, cuddlies and bags must be clearly named. Because play and exploration can often be wet or messy, children should be dressed in suitable clothing for this type of play. Spare clothing should be packed every day and we recommend at least 2-3 changes of clothing (or more if your child is toilet training). In Winter, rain attire and gumboots are essential while in Summer sun hats are to be provided for outside play. We also ask that you apply sunblock in the morning, and we will reapply it throughout the day.
toys & treasures from home
We have chosen a wide range of developmentally appropriate equipment and toys for the centre. It would be appreciated if parents can explain to their children that the toys at our centres are for everyone to share and that they cannot be taken home. We would also appreciate if your child could be dissuaded from bringing in their own toys from home. Cuddly or security toys are welcome but need to be named.
sleep & routine times
Your child will be offered the opportunity to have sleep and rests during the day. This enables them to re-energise and to be able to participate happily in the remainder of their day. We do our best to maintain any existing sleep routines that have been established, but it might slightly differ to help accomodate their schedules throughout the day. However, we work with you before implementing this.
excursions & trips
Excursions out of the centre will be arranged from time-to-time as part of your child’s experience. Parents are encouraged to be part of these outings. Permission slips outlining the trip, transport, cost, and adult: child ratio will be given to all parents to complete prior to the excursion. Children who are unable to attend will remain in the centre. Children may be taken on small walks out of the centre. Approval for these is given when completing the enrolment form.
toileting
Routine toileting times are encouraged throughout the day to support each child’s capabilities and independence. During toilet learning, our teachers will work with you and support your child’s efforts to gain this independence while they are in the centre.
Make sure that you bring plenty of changes of clothes during this time as a few accidents are part of the toilet learning process.