Little Learners
The Little Learners is a home from home environment for your child to explore, and comprises of a playroom, and a separate sleep/rest area, all with direct access to a fully enclosed garden. We encourage the children to move throughout the setting, just like they would at home, and we have the luxury of having the freedom to allow children to sleep when they are tired, or have quiet, restful time if necessary. The age group within the Little Learners is 3 months - 2 and a half years.
About the Setting
Our rooms neutrally decorated beautiful play areas with low level windows which keep the room bright and airy The room is equipped with preloved authentic resources, loose parts and are dressed with large branches and plants allowing children to experience nature inside and out. A mix of responsive and intentional planned areas consider the specific needs of children aged 3 months – 2 and a half years , with a balance of child-initiated, adult initiated and adult-directed experiences supporting brain development, children’s interests, curiosity and independence. The layout of the room allows for exploration, cosy areas and messy time and is rich with literacy, numeracy and mathematical experiences.
Having a separate dining room allows children to eat breakfast, lunch and snack throughout the day, allowing dietary and individual needs to met ensuring children are “fully fuelled” and ready to be busy at play.
Our Approach
Outdoor area
A fully enclosed accessible outdoor area gives children the choice on whether to play indoors or outdoors in all weathers every day. Play areas within the garden are carefully set up such as a mud kitchen, soil play, water play with many larger loose parts such as ladders, pallets, tyres, crates and wheels allowing children to be pilots in their own play.
Transitions
As your child grows and develops they will have opportunities to experience play within the nursery class and big garden. These experiences will support and enhance your child's relationships with other staff and older peers, ensuring that they are confident and feel secure when they permently transitioning to the Nursery Class.
Locations
Opening times
Monday – Friday: 8am – 6pm
smilechildcare provides care throughout the year, although we close for two weeks over the Christmas period and for Scottish Public Holidays.
Enquiries
To enquire about booking childcare then call us on 0131 476 7800 (Ext 1) or email us at mailbox@smilechildcare.org.
