Playgroups & Preschool in general

I am myself an early year's practitioner in a family run preschool on the isle of Wight. We are fully ofsted and always meet a high standard in child care which reflects in all of our reports. This is my view and reflection of childcare I have witnessed and also been involved in. Our number one rule in the setting is a child is an individual they have there own rights and views and this must always be obtained. In fact all settings should up hold to this, no matter a child's race, sexuality or greed. The main thing to look for in a good preschool would be weather all requirements of children are met at all times, you must feel the setting ...  Read the complete review

Not all playgroups are the same. You didn't check it out very well before your child joined. Many groups are very good. National daycare standards should be inforced in a well maintained group. Before allowing your child to attend a group, check them out! ask questions and you will see for yourself if they have any idea about child development. A good group will be able to answer any questions you may have, or check out their ofsted report. Ensure that all staff are qualified in childcare and child development to at least a level 3 qualification. ...  Read the complete review

Why is it than when kids get to 2.5 years old, and you find a local playgroup, you automatically sign them up for it? - Something to do with having some time to yourself & encouraging your childs social skills! Just a warning - I did just that sign my son up to the local playgroup - he loved it, once he got over the first week of separation. Those of you that have read other opinions of mine, will know that I am a registered childminder. Over the last month or so, I have had no small children to 'mind' during the day due to house moves, and so I volunteered to help out for a couple of mornings at my sons playgroup. What an ...  Read the complete review

My son went to a childminders until he was a little over two years old. I then gave up work as I was due to have my second child. It soon became apparant that Jamie was in need of more stimulation. He had been used to having lots of children around him and lots of fun within the group of friends he had. I then decided it was time for me to find some toddler groups and a preschool playgroup for him. I was in need of a few quiet moments as I was heavily pregnant and he wanted to run about and play with other children. I first of all started with just toddler groups so that I could ask other parents which playgroups around were the best and find out ...  Read the complete review

Why is play such a essential part of learning? What can a child possibly learn from playing with paint, glue or feathers? Did you know that a child will learn most skills by the age of 4 yrs old? Yes, its true. Each skill like reading, writing, how to find knowledge, math and creativity is learnt by the age of 4 yrs old. From then on and for the rest of their life, children just improve on those skills, fine tuning them. Play school or play groups are such an essential part of a child's life. They prepare our children for proper or primary school in so many ways. What's more the carers of play schools make learning fun. Learn to play ...  Read the complete review