ORIENTATION VISITS AT ABACUS
At Abacus kindergarten we understand that the decision of childcare can be difficult already, and can lead to a little bit of anxiety, this is the reason why we have an orientation process in place to help the child to familiarise them-selves with our routine, educators, and our interest areas of our centres. This process also gives the parents the reassure they need knowing their child is going to ‘be ok’ and will settle into their new environment.
Between the Nominated Supervisor, Room leader and the family, together we will arrange an orientation day that will fit into your schedule, for your child to attend at our centre. The children will be encouraged to participate in the activities that are out at the time of orientation. Some children prefer to stand back and watch, where other children prefer to go towards other interest areas. Some of these children are still familiarising them-selves into the room environment as they are transiting from the younger room and are still compelling the new interest and activities with-in the room.
We do recommend and encourage your child to attend 1-2 hours minimum as part of the orientation process. During the day of orientation for your child, the room leader along with the educators will follow checklist to ensure that nothing is missed, and all the important areas are covered. For example: child lockers, eat and sleep charts, bathroom and nappy change, the menu and of course the sign in / sign out kiosk.
Please ensure that you are free to ask as many questions as possible throughout this process to get as much information as possible.
Positive interactions between the child, parents and the educators are so important as it helps the child build a positive attitude towards the educators and towards the centre environment. Our educators understand that some children take longer to adapt to new environments quicker than other children do and understand that all children are different and will adapt at their own pace as it feels comfortable. Before your child’s first day at Abacus, it is important that all documentation needed is completed and handed in to our Nominated Supervisor. The documentation is, enrolment form, Immunisation record, birth certificate, Photo ID and any other additional information eg: Allergy Action Plans, Dietary requirements, special comfort items.
THE FIRST DAY OF CARE AT ABACUS
The first day at Abacus will be very exciting day for your child. The educators understand that this can be an exciting but anxious time for your child. Our educators prepare them-selves for your child to attend the centre for their first day and do empathise for your child as it may bring some anxious feelings regardless if it’s your child’s first time in care or just in a new environment.
All your child’s belongings should have their name clearly labelled and given to your child’s room leader or educator.
Our centres provide nappies, wipes, sunscreen and all meals (breakfast, morning tea, lunch, afternoon, late snack). All you need to provide for your child is cot size bed linen, a drink bottle and a bucket hat. What we provide will assist you and the preparation for your child on their first day in care.
We invite you to stay as long as you want or need to, to ensure your child feels comfortable. On arrival sometimes it can be easier for an educator to settle your child, particularly when the bond gets a little stronger, it is also encouraged if you can spend a little time with your child to see how their day was, which can reassure you that they are comfortable within the environment.
We empathise with you on what you are feeling and are here to support you and your child. Saying goodbye is encouraged when dropping off your child in the mornings, and you are welcome to call at anytime during the day to see how your child’s day is going.
We encourage you to have a look at the daily routine, eat and sleep chart, if under 3 years of age and speak to your child’s educator about your child’s day, and if there are any concerns you should know about.