Frequently Asked Questions
What childcare services does Little Acorns Nursery provide?
Little Acorns Nursery is a professional, high quality provider of childcare services. It can also be described as an independent day nursery, a daycare nursery, a nursery, nursery school, a pre-school or a kindergarten. It will also suit those looking for a baby crèche or even simply a playgroup. In essence, it’s where babies and children under five are cared for during the working day and any of these terms can apply.
Where is Little Acorns Nursery located?
Little Acorns Nursery is located at 74 Smiths Lane, Hindley Green, Wigan WN2 4XR.
It’s very close and convenient for those living or working in Hindley, Bickershaw, Leigh, Atherton, Abram, Platt Bridge, Tyldesley, Westhoughton, Over Hulton, Little Hulton, Pennington Green, Ince-in-Makerfield, Ashton-in-Makerfield, Over Hulton, Culcheth, Golborne, Lowton and Middlebrook. Bolton and Warrington are just 8 and 12 miles distant respectively. Meanwhile, central Manchester is less than 20 miles away.
Does my child have to attend the same days and times each week?
Not at all. We cater for many different working patterns and indeed some complex rotas. We will do our best to provide the hours you want.
What happens regarding pre-admission visits?
We encourage you to visit as many times as you would like and the number of times is entirely your own choice. After all, we will be happy only if you and your child are. Some parents like to bring their child to play in the nursery for a few hours a day to see how they settle and fit in.
What safety precautions do you have whilst the children are playing outside?
Naturally there is close supervision at Little Acorns Nursery — at all times. Precautions such as our fence and gate arrangements are designed specifically to keep children safe and to prevent any sudden dash.
How can I be certain that my child only leaves the nursery with me or a person I have sent?
We operate a secret code word system at the nursery. When you have registered your child, our security measures will be explained to you. However, for security reasons, they cannot be detailed here.
Would I be notified if any of the nursery children are diagnosed as having an infectious disease?
Should any children at the nursery be diagnosed with an infectious disease, a notice will be displayed on the parent information board and all necessary precautions will be taken.
What parental involvement goes on in the nursery?
As much or as little as you decide. Parents are always welcome. Just ask the manager and we will try and accommodate your needs.
Are there periods during the day when my child can rest?
Yes, all children get the chance to rest during the day.
How long is your waiting list?
This varies with your requirements and we will tell you the situation by telephone or during a pre-registration visit.
What discipline do you have during meal times?
Staff sit with the children at meal times and thereby create a more family-like feel. A gentle focus on table manners is also maintained during this time.
Do I have to register for a place?
It is better to reserve a place for your child at the nursery. The earlier you do, the better the chance there is of obtaining exactly what you require.
What sort of staff do you employ?
All our staff are qualified or in the process of training to the National Standards.
What times do you open?
We open 7.30 am to 6 pm Monday to Friday.
When do you shut?
We close on bank holidays and over Christmas/New Year.
What meals and snacks are provided during the day?
Breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack and a teatime snacks are provided.
If I was late arriving at the nursery in the evening what would happen?
Firstly don’t panic, we will welcome a telephone call but understand that sometimes this is not possible. We will arrange for a member of staff to wait until you arrive.
Where do the majority of the families live who attend nursery?
Most of our families live within a 5 mile radius of Hindley Green.
How often do you have a fire drill?
We have a fire drill every 3 months and can empty the nursery in seconds if required. Registers are checked to ensure nobody has been left behind.
What would happen in an emergency, say if my child had an accident?
What happens at the nursery in the unlikely event of an accident or emergency depends on the specific circumstances. Rest assured that staff undergo training to ensure they can deal with emergencies and indeed many have First Aid training. Should an accident or other emergency occur, parents would be contacted and the duty manager would make the decision as to whether to call a doctor or ambulance, as appropriate.
How many children are you registered for?
Little Acorns Nursery is registered for 49 children. Our registration certificate is situated in the entrance hall.
What if I need to ring to check that my child is OK during the day?
This is no problem at all. If at any time you wish to telephone, we encourage you to do so, rather than to worry.
How do you cater for children who have special dietary needs?
During registration and pre-visits, you will be asked if your child has any special dietary needs. Once confirmed, we will ensure that their dietary needs are catered for.
What do I pay in the event of my child being absent?
In common with most nurseries in the area we charge full rate. The fees are charged to reserve a place and staff are employed accordingly.
I have been asked to work more hours than I originally intended. Is that a problem?
Should this occur, please let us know as soon as possible and we will do our best to accommodate you.
