Below, we have tried to answer some of the main questions our families ask us during the visit and registration process.  If we have not answered a question you have, please contact us.. we will be more than happy to help!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

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At Busy Bees Ledbury, we understand that choosing the right nursery for your child is an important decision. We've answered some of our most frequently asked questions below to help you feel informed, reassured and confident about joining our Busy Bees family!

We understand that starting nursery is a big milestone for children and their families, and we want everyone to feel happy, comfortable and confident from the very beginning.

Each child is allocated a Key Person who will build a warm, trusting relationship with them and work closely with you to support their transition into nursery.

We offer settling-in opportunities and take an individual approach, recognising that some children may need a little more time and reassurance than others.

 

What is the minimum number of sessions my child can attend?

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To help children settle confidently, build positive relationships and become familiar with our nursery routines, we require a minimum attendance of two 3-hour sessions or one 6-hour session per week.

We believe regular attendance helps children develop a sense of belonging, build trusting relationships with staff and other children, and enjoy a smoother transition into nursery life.

We recognise that every child is unique and will always consider individual circumstances, including additional needs or disabilities, making reasonable adjustments where appropriate.

We offer flexible sessions beyond this minimum to suit your family's needs, subject to availability.

 

How do funded childcare hours work?

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At Busy Bees Ledbury, we aim to make childcare as accessible and flexible as possible for families.

Eligible working parents can receive up to 30 hours of government-funded childcare per week for children aged 9 months to school age. All 3- and 4-year-olds are entitled to 15 funded hours, with additional funded entitlements available for eligible families.

As we operate term-time only, funded hours are offered during our nursery opening weeks and are subject to eligibility, availability and our opening hours.

We do not restrict funded hours to particular days, and families can book additional hours at our usual hourly rate.

We're always happy to help you understand your funding options!

You can check your eligibility and apply at www.childcarechoices.gov.uk.

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My child is still in nappies. Can they still come to Bees?

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Of course! Every child develops at their own pace, and children do not need to be toilet trained to attend Busy Bees.

We are happy to support nappy changing and simply ask parents to provide nappies and wipes for each session.

As children approach school age, we work closely with families to encourage independence and support toilet training when they are ready, always considering each child's individual needs and development.

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What do I need to send my child in with for a session at Busy Bees?

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We ask that children arrive with everything they need for a happy and comfortable day, including:

• A named change of clothes.

• Nappies and wipes, if required.

• A healthy, balanced packed lunch if attending an afternoon or full-day session.

• A named water bottle.

• Suitable outdoor clothing, including a waterproof coat and wellies.

• During warmer weather, a sun hat and sunscreen applied before arrival. Please also provide named sunscreen for reapplication where required, in line with our sun safety procedures.
   

We love outdoor learning and encourage children to explore our outdoor spaces throughout the year, so please ensure they are dressed for the weather!

My child has had Calpol. Can they still come to Bees?
 

If your child has needed Calpol or other pain relief because they are unwell, we ask that they remain at home until they are feeling better.

Pain relief can temporarily reduce symptoms such as a high temperature, so it is important that children are well enough to comfortably participate in nursery activities.

If your child has been given medication for another reason, such as an ongoing medical condition, please speak to us so we can consider their individual circumstances in line with our illness and medication policies.

What happens if my child becomes unwell at nursery?
 

If your child becomes unwell during their session, we will ensure they are comfortable, cared for and closely monitored.

We will contact you if your child is too unwell to participate in their usual activities or needs to be collected.

For sickness and diarrhoea, children must remain at home until at least 48 hours after their last episode.

We follow current health guidance and our nursery's illness and infection control procedures to help keep everyone safe and well.

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My child has dietary needs or allergies. Can they still come?

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Absolutely! We welcome children with a wide range of dietary requirements, allergies and additional needs.

We ask parents to inform us of any dietary requirements or allergies before their child starts, or as soon as a new need is identified.

We work closely with families and, where necessary, healthcare professionals to ensure appropriate arrangements are in place to keep children safe, healthy and included.

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My child has a dummy. Can they use this at the setting?

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At Busy Bees, we encourage children to develop their communication and language skills through talking, singing, playing and interacting with others.

Following our Communication Friendly Setting training through Elklan and advice from the Health Visiting Team, we encourage children to avoid using dummies during play and learning activities, helping to provide more opportunities for speech and communication.

However, we recognise that some children use dummies for comfort, sleep or additional needs. We will always work with families to support each child's individual wellbeing and development.

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What is your routine at Bees?

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9:00 The doors to Bees are opened and children are welcomed into the setting!

 

9.00-11.30 Free flow and continuous provision to foster independence, choice and exploration both indoors and outdoors.

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9:45-10:15 Rolling snack time.

 

11:30 Putting resources back where they belong.

 

11:45 Circle times - story and song time for Caterpillars. Letters and Sounds, and activities for Butterflies.

 

12:00 End of morning session.  Doors open for families to collect and drop off.  

 

12:15-12:45 Lunch time. 

 

12:45-2:20  Free flow and continuous provision to foster independence, choice and exploration both indoors

                       and outdoors.

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2:20 Putting resources back where they belong.

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2:30 Snack and story time.

 

2:45-3:00 Children are collected by their families.

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Still have a question?

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We're always happy to help! Please don't hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team if there's anything else you'd like to know.

Busy Bees Ledbury

The Hive, Bye Street, Ledbury, HR8 2AG

Telephone: 01531 634556

Email: admin@busybeesledbury.com

Nurturing Young Minds

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