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Welcome to our blog Blossom Lodge Day Nursery where today we are providing you with some excellent tips on how to choose the right nursery for your child. As one of the most difficult decisions you’ll potentially face in life, it’s a dilemma we fully comprehend. After all, you’re handing across your whole world to be cared for. Let’s dive in. 

What you’ll be looking for initially;

Setting out on your nursery challenge inevitably means every parent begins with very similar requirements. A clean and safe environment with a warm and welcoming team. Of course a nursery that’s close to home or work is preferable but as a parent you’d go out of the way if it means you’re confident in a particular environment. 

First impressions count;

Make sure to take note of your gut instinct; it’s usually right! Every parent and caregivers first impression should be that of a welcoming space where children look happy and healthy. 

So what exactly should you consider when choosing the right nursery for your child? 

Top Tip Number 1: Check out the History

How long has the nursery been established? If it’s a relatively short amount of time, how experienced are the team in childcare? You’ll want to ensure those caring for your most precious family members hold the relevant qualifications and have a proven track record. 

Blossom Lodge History: We have been in existence for over 25 years now. Our formidable team is made up from long standing members and qualified industry professionals. 

Top Tip Number 2: Food & Nutrition

Irrespective of age, nutrition is such an important aspect. When good nutritional values are introduced during the younger years, children are more likely to take these into adulthood. Is food prepared daily and is it fresh? Is it done so on site or brought in from an external source?  

Blossom Lodge Food: Food and nutrition is a HUGE part of our nursery. Not only do we have a garden where children can grow fruit and vegetables, we also have our chef, Sergio. Sergio prepares fresh food on the premises daily, using the fruit and vegetables grown by our little ones.  

Top Tip Number 3: Working in Partnership

It’s intrinsic that your chosen nursery understands your child, their routine, development, progression and quirks. In contrast, you need to know how your child is evolving in terms of life skills and of course, talents! Effective communication and the desire from both parties to work together means children will gain the very best from nursery. 

Blossom Lodge Working With You: Our team is dedicated in working closely with parents and carers in order to ensure the best possible experience for children. 

Interested in finding out more about our nursery?

Here at Blossom Lodge Day Nursery we are currently holding an enrolment event from 1st – 23rd October. With limited spaces available we highly recommend booking a visit now. Should you choose our team to care for your child you’ll receive one month absolutely free of charge. When you visit us you’ll also receive a £25 gift voucher and your child will leave with a Blossom Lodge Bear of their very own. 

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77 Hales Rd, Cheltenham GL52 6SR.
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Blossom Lodge Day Nursery FAQs

How do I arrange a viewing of the nursery?

It’s straightforward to book a visit at Blossom Lodge Day Nursery in Cheltenham. Our team is more than happy to show you around each of the rooms and our facilities whilst answering any questions. Book a visit here, directly through the nursery website, call us on 01242 525374 or even just pop in.

Do you offer any extended hours?

Our day nursery aims to provide the very best in care whilst working around your childcare needs. With this in mind, the answer is yes, we provide extended hours. We offer an early start at 7.30am and a late collection of 6.30pm. Extended hours can be booked as part of your weekly sessions or on an ad hoc basis.

How many staff will look after my child?

In line with statutory requirements the following staff to child ratios apply:

  • 0-1 years is 1 member of staff for every 3 children
  • 1-2 years is 1 member of staff for every 3 children
  • 2-3 years is 1 member of staff for every 4 children
  • 3-5 years is 1 member of staff for every 8 children

Do you offer settling in sessions?

Yes absolutely. Every child is offered a settling in session that takes place two weeks before their actual start date. Children usually attend between 2-4 settling in sessions depending upon age. During the initial session you will stay with your child and spend time together meeting staff and discussing specific needs and routines. Settling in sessions after the first depends on age, booking pattern and how your child adapts to nursery. This will of course be discussed with you prior to arranging suitable dates together.

Can I use Government funded hours at Blossom Lodge?

Yes, every 3 and 4 year old child can claim 15 hours of funded nursery education. This increases to 30 hours based upon eligibility and begins from the term after their third birthday. Some 2 year old children may also qualify for the funded 15 hours and this is based upon meeting certain criteria. For further information parents can call and we will be happy to discuss how funded childcare is applied at our Cheltenham based nursery.

Do you allow payments through the Tax Free Childcare Scheme?

Yes, we are registered to accept payments through the Tax Free Childcare Scheme. To learn more about how the Tax Free Childcare Scheme supports families visit Childcare Choices.

Do I need to pay extra for meals and snacks?

Meals and snacks are included within fees so you are not required to pay extra. Our menus are healthy, consisting of breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack and tea. If your child has specific dietary requirements or is a 'fussy' eater, our team will work with you ensuring your child's needs are met. Unfortunately due to allergies within the nursery we are unable to accept food or packed lunches brought in to replace our menu.

What else is included in your nursery fees?

Included in our day nursery fees are nappies, wet wipes and nappy creams. Cow's milk is provided for children over the age of 1 but we do ask parents to provide any formula milk required throughout the day.

Do you have a car park and pushchair storage?

You will find our car park to the rear of the day nursery building. This is for parents to access alongside a pushchair storage cupboard if required. Here you can leave pushchairs and car seats whilst your child is in nursery.

Do you offer any discounts on your nursery fees?

At Blossom Lodge Day Nursery we offer the following discounts:

  • 10% NHS employee discount
  • Discounted daily rate for full time places
  • 10% Sibling discount for the youngest child*

*Please note this will not apply if the older child is in receipt of Government Funded Hours.

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