Childcare Policies & Procedures

STEP BY STEP
Childcare Policies & Procedures

OBJECTIVES

At Step By Step Crèche & Montessori our ethos and practice values diversity and promotes quality.

The daily programme includes a variety of activities which encourage the physical, intellectual, emotional and social development of children. It is based on clearly-defined aims and objectives and is flexible.

The voice of the child is heard, respected and contributes to our programme

We aim to deliver a quality care, play and Montessori curriculum which addresses children’s well-being, identity and belonging, communication and exploring and thinking, along with the principles of Aistear, the Early Childhood Curriculum Framework

We aim to make Step By Step Crèche & Montessori accessible to all members of the community, regardless of race, gender, family status, age, disability or religious belief

The Crèche environment is planned and well-organised in a way that suits the different needs of individual children, while keeping in mind the importance of Safety and Hygiene

We provide interesting, varied, challenging and satisfying play experiences. Play materials and equipment are set out in such a way that they are accessible to the children, enabling them to make choices about how they spend their time, as well as promoting independence and self-motivation

We believe that parents are the first and most important educators of young children. Parents are actively welcomed at Step By Step Crèche & Montessori at all times

Children’s Charter

Children’s welfare and their rights to secure, healthy and happy childhood are paramount.

The experiences children receive in their early years are critically important in terms of future development.

Children are entitled to expect that all adults will respect, uphold and preserve their rights and to ensure that their feelings and wishes are taken into account.

Children should have the opportunity to make choices and develop a sense of responsibility for their own actions appropriate to their age.

Children, parents and carers should not be discriminated against, particularly in relation to colour, age, race, religion, gender, disability medical conditions or background.

Parents should be recognised and respected as children’s first and continuing educators.