May Newsletter
How is it the end of May already? We’ve had another busy and fun-filled month here at Horfield! The children have been making the most of the better weather and have loved exploring our new mud kitchen.
As the holiday season approaches, please don’t forget to let us know about any planned family holidays you may have coming up, as we don’t want to interrupt them with a call if your child isn’t here.
And, as the British weather is often unpredictable, please can we remind all parents to pack weather-appropriate clothing, including sun cream, sun hats, and a raincoat for those unexpected showers!
Charity - At Snapdragons Horfield, we’re also looking into supporting a local charity and getting the children involved. If you have any suggestions for a good local cause, please let us know in the office.
Important Dates
Father’s Day Stay and Play - Friday 13th June 9-10am. Please let us know in the office if you are attending and whether you have any dietary requirements.
Preschool Leavers Cattle Country Trip - Friday 20th June
Preschool Graduation - Saturday 26th July 10am - 12pm
Last Day for Term Time Only Bookings - Friday 11th July
Nominate a Star
Is there a staff member that you would like to be acknowledged for all their hard work this year or someone who you would just like to thank? At Snapdragons we run a reward scheme for our employees, nominations from parents mean stars for the staff that can go towards a range of different rewards and prizes which can include sweet treats, hampers, meal vouchers and even a trip to the spa, so if you would like to reward the staff remember to fill in the online form sharing your lovely words. Snappies Superstar — Snapdragons Nursery
Hedgehogs
Babies have been busy exploring different textures this month from painting to playdough! Babies loved using different tools to make their own marks. We’ve also been focusing on the skill of taking turns and using our favourite objects to pass to a friend - great sharing babies!
Squirrels
Squirrels have been treating the toy babies to a baby spa this month. We’ve had so much fun pampering them with a seaweed wrap, skin masks and a luxury eye mask. We’ve loved talking about how we can help the babies relax. We then participated in our own relaxation session.
Otters
Otters have been using their motor skills throughout their learning this month: squeezing our playdough into different shapes and moulds, using cars and other tools to make marks and building our own numbers. We’ve also loved squeezing, pouring and scooping in our mystery pink water tray.
Badgers
Badgers have been green fingered this month and celebrating national gardening week by planting their own cress seeds. They’ve been discussing how best to look after their plants, who is going to help keep them watered and what they might do with the cress once it has grown. We can’t wait to see the results!
Deers
Deers have been bakers this month - they made some delicious banana and raisin muffins by using their maths skills to measure out the ingredients. They’ve also been scientists by exploring which ramps, and height, were best to ensure that the fire engine could get to the emergency as fast as possible (without toppling over). Finally, the creative artists of preschool made their own chalk paint to decorate the path - what a beautiful rainbow of colours it was!
This Month’s focus:
This month, our focus is on supporting our children with strategies for emotional regulation, through both co-regulation and self-regulation. As part of our monthly themes, we’ll also be introducing new ‘Signs of the Month.’
Makaton is a unique communication programme that uses symbols (pictures), signs (gestures), and speech to enable people to communicate. It supports the development of essential communication skills such as attention and listening, comprehension, memory, recall, and the organisation of language and expression.
Love the Horfield Team x
April Newsletter
April has been a busy and exciting month at Horfield! The children have loved exploring all the new garden equipment and letting their imaginations run wild. We’ve seen pirates setting sail, race cars being built, and countless other creative adventures unfolding outdoors. We can’t wait to see what wonderful ideas they come up with next!
Important dates:
Concept Photography - Wednesday 14th and Thursday 15th May
Father’s Day Stay and Play and a Treat to takeaway - Friday 13th June - 9am-10am
Nominate a Snappies Star
Nominate a star - Is there a staff member that you would like to be acknowledged for all their hard work this year or someone who you would just like to thank? At Snapdragons we run a reward scheme for our employees, nominations from parents mean stars for the staff that can go towards a range of different rewards and prizes which can include sweet treats, hampers, meal vouchers and even a trip to the spa, so if you would like to reward the staff remember to fill in the online form sharing your lovely words. Snappies Superstar — Snapdragons Nursery
Hedgehogs
Our babies have had so much fun in the garden this month! They took a magical trip to the baby garden beach, where they enjoyed building sandcastles and splashing in the cool sea. They have also been making time to enjoy their favourite stories and explore outdoor play - embracing the sunshine and fresh air whenever they can!
Squirrels
This month, the Squirrels have been hard at work in the garden, showing lots of care as they looked after our strawberry plants. We can’t wait to taste them soon - hopefully! To mark World Earth Day, the Squirrels got creative with a special beach themed tuff tray and nature inspired playdough.
Otters
This month Otters have been putting their maths skills to the test by keeping track of how much they’ve all grown! Using measuring tools and number recognition, the children have been excitedly comparing heights and learning about measurement in such a fun, hands-on way! Otters have also been getting crafty by using natural materials to created their own beautiful works of art.
Badgers
This month Badgers has been hands-on (quite literally!) with colour mixing. Our curious colour detectives were set the exciting task of discovering what happens when different colours are combined. Using their hands to mix paints, the children explored a rainbow of possibilities and learning all about colour mixing. After all the coloursful chaos, they helped lend a hand with the clean up - using the bubbly water to help. Fantastic teamwork Badgers!
Deers
Preschool children have been making the most of the sunshine this month, giving the garden equipment a big thumbs up! It’s been lovely to see so much outdoor learning and imaginative play taking place in the fresh air. They also had lots of fun celebrating Easter - decorating their own Easter eggs and organising a special egg hunt for their friends to enjoy. A big well done to all our Easter Bunnies!
Love the Horfield Team x
March Newsletter
It has been a lovely month of celebration here at Horfield. We’ve really enjoyed getting into character to celebrate World Book Day and we were lucky enough to be treated to a special World Book Day Menu - courtesy of our Chef, George! We also loved welcoming our Mothers’ and Others’ Day adults to join us for our crafternoon tea. It was such a wonderful atmosphere in the nursery and we hope that you enjoyed it as much as we did. We hope to plan more activites like these in the upcoming months. Now the sun has been shining and we’ve been enjoying exploring the new garden resources as they arrive.
Important Dates:
Monday 14th April - Parent’s evening. Sign up sheets are available in the rooms.
Friday 18th April & Monday 21st April - Closed for Easter bank Holiday.
Staff Nominations:
Nominate a star - Is there a staff member that you would like to be acknowledged for all their hard work this year or someone who you would just like to thank? At Snapdragons we run a reward scheme for our employees, nominations from parents mean stars for the staff that can go towards a range of different rewards and prizes which can include sweet treats, hampers, meal vouchers and even a trip to the spa, so if you would like to reward the staff remember to fill in the online form sharing your lovely words. Snappies Superstar — Snapdragons Nursery
Hedgehogs
Babies have been ‘being creative’ this month. For book week we made our own handprint Elmers which showed everyone being together and then enjoyed a lovely story time too! We loved having our special people come in to celebrate this month and showed them how messy we like to get in babies. Now that the sun is shining, we have been taking our art outside and using green and yellow, we made our own daffodils.
Squirrels
For World Book week, Squirrels tested out their story telling skills with their own Bear Hunt! We had so much fun walking on different textures and running away from the bear! Tip Toe, Tip Toe, Tip Toe! This month in Squirrels we’ve been developing our ‘Self Help’ and independence skills and learning how to safely chop our own fruit…. Squirrels did such a brilliant job!!
Otters
Shhhh… Can you hear the sea? Otters have been busy exploring their different senses to talk about looking after our oceans! For book week, we had a lovely interactive story session based around the book ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’ where we helped the characters move through the story. We’ve also been ‘being creative’ through our colour mixing and learning how to make our favourite colours!
Badgers
There was another bear hunt in Badgers this month but this time…. it was outside! Badgers loved exploring the different textures and running to hide. Badgers have also been learning how to develop their independence and started by making their own playough - mixing, pouring and rolling! For our lovely Mothers’ and Others’ celebration, Badgers had a scrumptious tea party and made their special people some love soup!
Deers
We’ve celebrated so much in Deer room this month! We have been sharing stories to celebrate Neurodiversity Week and loved sharing what makes us special and unique! For World Book Day we tested out our acting skills and shared our favourote stories by retelling them to our friend. We also loved ‘being creative’ to celebrate the special people in our lives - we made bracelets,
Love the Horfield Team x
February Newsletter
Lots of things have been happening at Horfield this month, and with love and wellbeing as the main focus, the children have enjoyed making some Valentine’s treats for you all! The staff were given a little token of appreciation for all their hard work.
Nominate a star - Is there a staff member that you would like to be acknowledged for all their hard work this year or someone who you would just like to thank? At Snapdragons we run a reward scheme for our employees, nominations from parents mean stars for the staff that can go towards a range of different rewards and prizes which can include sweet treats, hampers, meal vouchers and even a trip to the spa, so if you would like to reward the staff remember to fill in the online form sharing your lovely words. Snappies Superstar — Snapdragons Nursery
Updates
Garden - We’ve been really lucky to have a lovely new play space created in our garden. I know some of you are concerned about the lack of resources and shade at the moment. Please let us reassure you that we have placed a very large order for garden resources and have some plans in place to create shade in time for the summer months.
Staffing Updates
We are sad to be saying goodbye to some of our wonderful staff in March.
The lovely Gemma is going to be leaving us on Thursday 6th March to spend more time with her own children. We are currently in the process of recruiting for her replacement and interviews are underway. In the meantime, the room will be supported by senior members of staff.
The wonderful Ella is going to be leaving us on Thursday 20th March to persue a new career as an Enrichment Coordinator.
We have also said goodbye to Tash in Squirrels who is taking some time out of Early Years.
We wish them both all the best of luck!
We have also had some new staff join us this month. We have welcomed Kumba into our Otter room and Ashanti into our Badger room. They have loved getting to know all the wonderful Horfield children.
Hedgehogs
Hedgehogs have been taking some time out to relax at the baby spa this month. They loved having a little massage and a cucumber facial. Babies also enjoyed making their own valentine treats for their grown ups… we hope you enjoyed them!
Squirrels
Squirrels have loved joining with Otters this month to take a trip to the park… look at those smiles! Squirrel room have also been exploring fizzy hearts. They loved using the pipettes to add vinegard and watch them explode into lots of different colours.
Otters
Otters have been focusing on looking after each other this month. They have enjoyed caring for the babies and giving them a bath, helping the teddy bears to brush their teeth whilst talking about the importance of healthy teeth and even making their own notes on the board!
Badgers
Badgers have been making love potions and sprinkling in lots of kindness to share with their friends. They enjoyed talking about who they loved and what made them special whilst scooping and pouring and sieving the potion.
Deers
Deers have been writing cards for their own Valentine! Look at how well they turned out! Deer room have also been practising their construction skills this week by making their own cement and testing out it’s effectiveness to build a wall.
Love from the Horfield Team x
January Newsletter
We hope that you have all had a wonderful Christmas break. The children have certainly come back recharged and have enjoyed sharing all the wonderful things they did over the Christmas period. At Horfield, a New Year has also come with new management. I have tried to introduce myself to all the wonderful families here and it has been so incredibly lovely how welcoming you have all been, so thank you! If I have not yet managed to introduce myself, please come and say hello!
Polite Reminders
Calpol - Please do not bring your child to nursery if you have administered Calpol to them before their session. We please ask that children are 4 hours free from Calpol , or other temperature reducing medicine, before attending the setting, please help us to keep our children and team well by not bringing your child to the setting when they are unwell. Please be aware it is advised that children only receive Calpol for 3 days before consulting medical advice.
Footwear - We have seen an increasing number of children wearing wellies in the rooms. Please ensure that your child brings wellies for outdoor play and shoes that can be worn indoors, this can include slippers or their normal shoes. This will help to keep rooms clean and be more comfortable for the children throughout the day.
Upcoming events…
Friday 14th February- Valentines Day
Thursday 6th March- World Book Day
Monday 10th- Friday 14th March- British Science Week
Sunday 30th March- Mother’s Day
Sunday 30th & Monday 31st March- Eid
If any of our families have any celebrations that they would like to share with us at Horfield, then please get in touch to let us know. We feel it is very important to value and support the different cultures and communities with our children.
Hedgehodgs
This month we have been celebrating bird week and incorporating birds into our messy play! We have enjoyed using sieves to fish feathers out of water, watch their colours run in shaving foam and dig pipe cleaner worms out of sand. We also explored textures with our own hay and clay birds nests and natural feathers.
Squirrels
Squirrels have been enjoying celebrating bird week by making their own bird feeders and then going on a local walk to see the birds and feed them. The children loved coming back to nursery and telling everyone about how the birds picked up the food with their beaks! They also took a trip to Windmill City Farm where they saw lots of different animals.
Otters
Otters have had a great January spotting different birds and naming them. They loved using the magnifying glasses to look for their favourite ones too. Otters have been celebrating Chinese New Year by decorating their own sticker snakes.
Badgers
Badgers have also loved celebrating bird week by creating their own bird pictures using watercolours. They’ve also enjoyed taking care of the dolls by giving them a bath. They also got moving by having a fun dance party!
Deers
Preschool have been painting their own birds this week for bird week. They took inspiration from looking at different birds in the garden to inspire their own masterpieces. We’ve also been exploring our sense of self by creating our own self portraits on canvas!
Love the Horfield Team x
November Newsletter
Dear families,
I hope this newsletter finds you all well and you’re looking forward to the festive season. There was lots of joy and excitement within the nursery, especially with the recent snowfall. It was so cute to see the children’s faces light up as the snow fell from the sky. Please read on for some important updates and information.
World Space Week
It was an exciting time at Horfield during our World Space Week. Our children of all ages participated in the wonders of space and they had a blast exploring a variety of activities. From enjoying space-themed books and nursery rhymes, they learned about space objects in a fun and interactive way, which fostered their imagination and language skills. They also got hands-on with baking space rock cakes and making rocket fruit kebabs which encouraged their fine motor skills.
Our budding astronauts also got creative by building giant rockets, encouraging teamwork and problem-solving skills as they worked together to bring their creations to life. Older children took their learning further by exploring the solar system through painting and creating the planets.
Sensory activities were also a hit with cosmic playdough and intergalactic sensory trays offering a tactile experience that promoted sensory development and imaginative play. The children also participated in space-themed scavenger hunts, which supported their sense of discovery.
Overall, Space Week has been a fantastic opportunity for all the children to learn, play, and explore the universe in their own unique way. We are so proud of their enthusiasm, and we are super grateful to our wonderful Practitioners for creating these learning opportunities. And a special thanks to our talented chef, George for whipping up a delicious space themed menu which the children tucked into.
Spooky S’mores
Thank you to all of you who joined us for our recent Spooky S'mores event. It was, without a doubt, the busiest one we've had yet, and we couldn't have been happier to see so many families come together. The atmosphere was fantastic, with families chatting and the children had a lovely time baking their s'mores over the fire pit. Thank you for your involvement and making the event a memorable one.
Nominate Your Superstar
Our dedicated staff play a pivotal role in giving your child the best possible care and education, with this in mind I would like to let you know that Snapdragons has a platform that allows you to show your appreciation for our staff members and help them earn stars. These stars can then be traded in for treats and vouchers. Your feedback will not only brighten their day but also encourage them to continue their outstanding efforts in nurturing and educating your children. If you would like to nominate a superstar, please follow the link below.
https://www.snapdragonsnursery.com/superstar
Polite Reminders
Toys
We kindly ask that you refrain from bringing personal toys into the nursery. Bringing toys from home can sometimes lead to misplacement and sharing difficulties. However, we do encourage the use of comforters or familiar items that provide comfort to your child during unsettled periods and sleep times.
Teething Gel/ Nappy Creams
For our younger children who may be teething, please provide a labelled teething gel if required and let the team know that it is in your child’s bag if needed. Additionally, if your child requires nappy cream, please provide your own preference with your child’s name clearly visible. Your child's comfort is our priority, and these items help us provide personalised care.
Pre-existing Injury Forms
I would like to emphasise the importance of informing us about any injuries your child may have incurred prior to their arrival at the nursery. It is imperative that you fill out a pre-existing injury form when you drop them off at nursery, even if the injury seems minor. This ensures that we are aware of any conditions and can provide appropriate care and attention as needed.
Mobile Phones
We have noticed an increase in parents using mobile phones inside the nursery. Please be reminded that the use of mobiles is prohibited onsite. This policy is in place to safeguard our children. Please do not be offended if a staff member reminds you of this rule.
Waterproofs
Now that we have finally been plunged into Winter, please can we remind you to supply true waterproofs and wellies for your little ones to wear in the garden. The children play outside each day whatever the weather so we want to ensure they are as comfortable as possible while splashing about in the puddles or making snow angels.
Christmas
Christmas Parties
Thursday 12th December 3pm
Each room will be hosting a Christmas party full of festive fun, Christmas crafts and merry melodies to dance the afternoon away to. If your child is not in nursery on this day, they are welcome to join for the party as long as they are accompanied by an adult. Please let the office know if you would like to attend.
Christmas Closure
We’ll close up at 6pm on Christmas Eve so our staff can join their loved ones for a well earned break. We will return back ready to tackle another year on Thursday 2nd January.
As always, if there is anything you would like to discuss then please don’t hesitate to stop by the desk or catch Jenny or Jojo at pickup or drop off.
September Newsletter
Hello families
As the leaves change and autumn sets in, we’re excited to bring you all the latest news and updates from the nursery. We’ve also got lots of exciting things planned for the coming weeks, and we can't wait to share them with you.
World Space week
World Space week has kicked off to an excellent start – it’s a joy to see so many of our small explorers get involved and learn so much already. Keep your eyes peeled for photos of your little astronauts-in-training on ParentZone this week.
Millies Mark
We are pleased to announce that we have completed the submission for our Millies Mark First Aid award. This prestigious recognition highlights our commitment to providing the highest standard of first aid training and ensuring that our team is fully equipped to keep your children safe at all times. We are now eagerly awaiting the results, which we hope to receive by the end of November.
Upcoming Events
October is packed full of exciting events and chances to connect with our nursery team
Concept Photography
16th – 17th October
We are excited to let you know that Concept Photography will be returning. The photographer is fantastic at creating a fun and relaxed atmosphere, ensuring that each child feels comfortable and happy during their photoshoot. This is a wonderful opportunity to capture some beautiful moments of your little ones while they’re enjoying their time at nursery.
There’s no obligation to purchase the photos, but if you would like to, you’ll receive information on how to view and order them afterward. If you’d prefer your child not to take part, just let us know.
If your child does not attend on these days, please email the office to book a slot with the photographer. Similarly, if you’d like a sibling to join for your child’s photos, then please let us know.
Parents Evening
24th October 6pm-8pm
An opportunity to meet with your child’s key person to discuss their progress and development. Closer to the time, there will be a sheet on the room door on which you can reserve a 10 minute slot.
If you cannot make this date, please let your child’s key person know and they can arrange a slot or phone call at a time or date that suits you.
Please note, practitioners will only meet with the parents of children who have attended the nursery for at least two months, as they will still be getting to know the newer children. If your child’s key person is not listed, it will be because they are on annual leave that day. If this is the case, or you are not available on this evening, please speak to the office or the room staff to book a slot or a phone call at another time.
Spooky S’mores
Monday 28th October 5pm-7pm
This is an early evening forest school event for our children and their families, hosted at Snapdragons Horfield. There will be an outdoor fire pit, homemade soup, activities and s'mores for you to enjoy. It’s a great chance for families to relax, socialise, and celebrate the season together.
We hope to see you there for a cozy and magical evening.
Halloween Party
Thursday 31st October at 3pm–4.30pm
You might spot a witch leading story time, a friendly pirate serving snacks, or even a superhero joining in the games. We’d love to see the children in their favourite costumes as well, but please remember that there is absolutely no pressure to dress up. If your child prefers not to wear a costume, that’s completely fine—they’ll still have a wonderful time enjoying all the activities we have planned.
If your child does not attend on a Thursday, they are welcome to come as long as they have an adult to accompany them. Please drop us an email to reserve a space if you would like to join.
Gentle Reminders
Pre-Existing Injury forms
We would like to remind you of the importance of completing Pre-Existing Injury forms. If your child has an accident or injury at home, it is essential that we are informed accurately so that we can care for your children properly and thoroughly. We understand the inconvenience that this may cause if you’re in a rush to get to work in the morning, so if it’s easier, you are welcome to take a couple of forms home to have on hand to complete at home before the rush of the morning.
Stair Gates
We have noticed that the stair gates are being left open during drop off and collection times. Please could we remind you the importance of keeping these closed after use, as this contributes to the overall safety of the children.
Christmas Opening Hours
The festivities are approaching! We will be closed from 25th December – 2nd January.
We will be looking forward to welcoming your little ones back on Thursday 2nd January.
August Newsletter
Dear families,
I hope this newsletter finds you all well and in good spirits. The children have really embraced the recent hot weather and our days have been filled with lots of water splashing and other outdoor pursuits.
I would like to take a moment to share some wonderful updates about our nursery, as well as some important information.
Insect Week Adventures
Our Insect week was fun filled and a highlight that was enjoyed by all. The children adored exploring our discovery table that was filled with fascinating resources. We were lucky to have a wonderful collection of insect books, bug hotels, insect hunting kits and other resources that captured the children’s curiosity.
Across the nursery, our children delved into an array of insect inspired activities such as bug hunts, beautiful insect crafts, sensory experiences and they even made their own insect fruit kebabs. To top it all off, George and Natalie served a bug themed menu that was delicious and nutritious.
We are so proud of how engaged the children have been. Their joy in exploring the world around them is delightful to see and we can’t wait for our next learning event.
Pre-school Leaver’s Celebration
We recently held a heartwarming celebration to say goodbye to our Deer room children as they embark on their next adventure to school. The event was a wonderful party that was filled with laughter, joy and a few tears as we celebrated our children’s journey together. We want to say a big thank you to all our Deer room families for their support and involvement over the years and we wish all our Pre-school leavers the best of luck in the next chapter of their educational journey.
Staffing Update
We are thrilled to announce that Gemma has taken on the role of Head of Babies. She is a dedicated mum of two with years of experience as an Early Years Practitioner. Gemma brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to our team. We wish her all the best in her new role and look forward to the wonderful contributions she will make.
Millie’s Mark
We are pleased to inform you that we have embarked on an exciting journey to achieve our Millie's Mark accreditation. The Millie's Mark is a special endorsement that is awarded to early years settings that have 100% staff trained in paediatric first aid. We are thrilled to be working towards this prestigious award and we’ll keep you updated on our progress.
Sun Cream & Nappy Creams.
As we are now in the hot weather, please ensure your child brings a sun cream bottle clearly labelled with their name. This helps us ensure each child is using the correct product. We would also like to ask you to check in regularly so we can tell you if you need to provide more. The same applies to any nappy cream your child may use.
Water Bottles
Please remember to provide a named water bottle for your child, which should be taken home regularly for washing. This helps us maintain hygiene standards and ensures that your child stays hydrated throughout the day. And please note that we provide additional drinking cups for each child during every mealtime.
Nusery Events & Dates To Remember
Art Week & Resident Artist (19th-23rd August)
Art week will be a colorful celebration of creativity where our children will get the opportunity to delve into various art forms and materials. We are also very pleased to announce that Snapdragons has now got our very own resident artist called Rhea Morton. Rhea is a ceramic artist and educator who will be carrying out workshops with all our age groups. She will be based with us weekly every few months. If you would like to find out more about Rhea, please head to her website.
World Space Week (7th-11th October)
We had so much fun with our last two and it’s definitely a Horfield favorite. World space week will be a stellar line up of comic activities and we can’t wait to blast off into space with your little ones.
Concept Photography (Wednesday 16th & Thursday 17th October)
Our concept photographer will be onsite to take Christmas themed portraits of our wonderful children. Remember, if your child does not attend nursery on the above dates, you are welcome to book a slot to come in and have some time with the photographer.
Parent’s Evening (Thursday 24th October)
Join us for parents evening where you will get the opportunity to discuss your child's progress with their Practitioners. The event will be from 6pm-8pm.
Spooky S’mores (Monday 28th October)
Get ready for an early evening of family fun at our Spooky S'mores event. Enjoy homemade soup around a cozy fire pit and make delicious s'mores together. It’s a wonderful chance for families to bond and enjoy the beginnings of Autumn.
Halloween Party (Thursday 31st October)
Our spooktacular Halloween parties will be held in all rooms from 3pm-4.30pm. If your child does not attend nursery on a Thursday, they are welcome to come and join in on the fun providing they have an adult to accompany them for the event.
Deer Room (Pre-school) Nativity Performances (Friday 29th November)
An invitation to all deer room parents and carers to watch a heartwarming performance of our children telling a classic Christmas story. Performance times will be 10am and 2pm.
Christmas Party (Thursday 12th December)
A festive party packed with merry activities and fun in all rooms from 3pm- 4.30pm. And same as before, if your child does not attend nursery on a Thursday, they are welcome to come and join in providing they have an adult to accompany them for the event. This party will be a lovely way to end the year on a cheerful note.
We hope you’re as excited about these events as we are. Each event is designed to be a delightful experience for both children and parents and we look forward to sharing these special moments.
And lastly, I would like to let you know that I will now be on leave to spend some quality time with my wonderful two boys. I shall return on 27th August. In the meantime, if there's anything you would like to discuss, please feel free to reach out to Jenny, Emma or Sophie and they will be more than happy to assist you. See you soon.
Jojo, Jenny & Team Horfield
April Newsletter 2024
Dear Families,
We hope this newsletter finds you well. The recent weather has certainly kept us on our toes. At Snapdragons, we love every season, and we can’t wait to see what spring has to offer.
We would like to take a moment to reflect on a couple of exciting learning events that took place at Horfield recently, as well as share some exciting news and important information.
Lunar New Year
Lunar New Year was a week filled with a vibrant time for our children as they delved into the rich tapestry of Chinese culture and tradition. From exploring authentic objects on our learning table to engaging circle times about the Chinese zodiac and captivating stories about dragons and dumplings. Every age group had the opportunity to participate in an array of exciting activities.
Out in the garden, our little adventurers embarked on dragon hunt games and performed an adorable parade with a magnificent dragon that they crafted themselves. There were also culinary adventures such as making spring rolls and dragon cookie baking.
However, what truly stood out was the sheer delight that filled the room when our children were given the opportunity to use chopsticks to eat their delicious noodles with (even our little babies joined in). It was very charming to see our children’s determination and witness their appreciation for other cultures.
British Science Week
British Science week was a week full of fun and exploration as the children participated in an array of activities that lead to discovery and it was thoroughly enjoyed by all.
Our little scientists had a blast creating their own volcanos, lava lamps and magic potions. It was a delight to see their excitement as they explored basic chemical reactions.
The children also got involved with creative activities, such as creating their own fossils with clay, string and cup telephones and exploring the world of colour and temperature.
Our science learning table proved to be a treasure trove of exploration, where the children got the chance to look at real fossils closely, as well as peer through a microscope to observe specimens.
We are so proud of our children for their hands-on learning and enthusiasm during this week of curiosity.
Exciting News
Author Visit
We have some exciting news! Local author, Will Hamilton-Davies will be visiting our older children on Friday 10th May. He will be sharing a reading of his book, 'The Shrew With The Flu' in addition to running some fun and engaging activities with the children. You can find out more about Will and also purchase a signed copy of his book on his website
https://willhdofficial.co.uk/
Chloe & Jess’s Charity Run
Our very own Head of Rooms, Chloe and Jess are embarking on a charity run for Cancer Research UK. They are dedicating their time and effort to raise funds for a good cause. We encourage you all to support them in reaching their target by digging deep and contributing whatever you can. Every donation, no matter how big or small, will make a significant difference.
https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/team/jess-and-chloes-team-1
Dates To Remember
Concept Photography
This year, Concept Photography will be onsite for the following days to capture some beautiful portraits of our children. If your child does not attend nursery on the noted days, you are welcome to email our office to book a slot for you and your child to pop in so they can have their photo taken. (horfield@snapdragonsnursery.com)
Tuesday 14th May
Wednesday 15th May
Wednesday 16th October
Thursday 17th October
Pre-School Celebration (Deer Room)
This is for the attention of Deer room families only. This year’s Pre-school celebration ceremony will take place on Saturday at 2pm on 20th July. You will receive an email closer to the time with all details. Please make a note that we kindly request that each child can be accompanied by 2 adults only. Unfortunately, we can’t accommodate any siblings at this event. We thank you in advance for your understanding on this.
Spooky S’mores
This year’s Spooky S’mores event falls on the evening of Monday 28th October. A fantastic opportunity to bond with fellow families and soak up the Halloween spirit.
Polite Reminders
Below are some important reminders to contribute to the smooth running of our children’s days.
Pre-existing Injury Forms
I would like to emphasise the importance of informing us about any injuries your child may have incurred prior to their arrival at the nursery. It is imperative that you fill out a pre-existing injury form when you drop them off at nursery, even if the injury seems minor. This ensures that we are aware of any conditions and can provide appropriate care and attention as needed.
Nursery Spare Clothing
If your child has borrowed any clothes from the nursery, we kindly request that you return them at your earliest convenience. This helps us to ensure that all items are available for all children to use when needed.
Personal Toys
We kindly ask that you refrain from bringing toys from home. This helps prevent sharing difficulties among the children and reduces the risk of items being misplaced or damaged. However, we do encourage the use of comforters if your child requires one to feel safe and secure during their time at the nursery.
Water Bottles
Please remember to provide a named water bottle for your child, which should be taken home regularly for washing. This helps us maintain hygiene standards and ensures that your child stays hydrated throughout the day. Please note that we do provide additional drinking cups for each child during every mealtime.
Weather Appropriate Clothing & Labelling Items
As we enjoy outdoor activities regardless of the weather, please ensure that your child is appropriately dressed with true waterproof clothing and footwear. This ensures that they can fully participate in our outdoor adventures without any discomfort. When the weather becomes hotter in the not-too-distant future, we would also like you to provide your little one with a sun hat.
Additionally, I kindly request that you label all clothing, shoes and personal belongings. This simple act greatly assists us in maintaining order and preventing items from being misplaced or confused with others.
Sun Cream & Nappy Creams
As the sun becomes stronger, it is crucial to protect our children from harmful UV rays so please do go ahead and provide a labelled sun cream that can stay at nursery. In line with this, we also advise you to provide a labelled nappy cream for your child just in case they might need it.
Messy Play
As you may already know, messy play is an intergral part of our curriculum where we encourage our children to self express and explore the world around them in a hands-on way. In order to fully engage in messy play, we kindly ask that you do not send your child into nursery in their Sunday best clothes. Instead, we encourage comfortable attire that you don’t mind getting messy so they can fully immerse themselves into activities. Aprons are always available for use, however sometimes the act of putting on an apron can interrupt the flow of play. I want to reassure you that our staff will do their best to keep our children clean, however there will be times where they will prioritise the joy of learning over keeping clothes pristine.
Thank you for your attention on this newsletter. Your cooperation in these matters is greatly appreciated. Please remember, we are always here if you would like to discuss anything. We look forward to enjoying the sunny days ahead with your little ones. See you around the nursery.
Jojo, Jenny and Team Horfield
February Newsletter 2024
Dear Parents & Carers,
I hope this newsletter finds you well and that you’re enjoying February as much as we are. As always, I have some exciting information to share from our nursery and before I delve into the details, I do apologise in advance that it’s quite lengthy. I assure you that every word is important as we share lots of news and updates so here goes…
RSPB Bird Watch Week
In January, we had an exciting week celebrating RSPB Bird Watch week, engaging our little ones into the world of birds, feathers, nature and bird song. We were also very grateful to a member of the RSPB for kindly lending us some binoculars, bird feeders and lots of other learning resources for the nursery to use for the week. Each age group delved into various bird-themed activities, sparking curiosity and creativity in our children. Here's a glimpse of what they all got up to.
Babies
Our youngest adventurers had a blast by being introduced to the world of birds through feather painting, bird themed sensory play and bird stories. It was heartwarming to witness their wonder and delight as they interacted with these adorable activities. Through feather painting and bird themed sensory play, they explored different colours and textures whilst enhancing their creativity and fine motor skills development. They also listened to bird stories where they absorbed new sounds, words and rhythm.
Toddlers
Our little toddlers were busy explorers as they delved into the fascinating world of our bird friends. Through hands-on activities like using magnifying glasses to find mini birds and insects in tuff tray setups, they've honed their observation skills and developed an appreciation for nature. They were also engaging in sensory play opportunities with natural items, role play eggs and small world birds which provided tactile experiences. During our circle times, toddlers eagerly participated in learning about different bird species and enjoyed bird related stories, expanding their vocabulary and understanding of the world around them. During garden time, they adored exploring the binoculars, attempting to spot birds in their natural habitat.
Rising 3’s and Pre-School
Our biggest adventurers embarked on a learning journey that dived deep into the world of birds and nature. Through hands-on activities like crafting their own birds and nests with clay, play dough and natural objects, they explored and exercised their fine motor skills and creativity. Artistic opportunities such as feather collages and bird painting allowed them to express their imagination and explore colours. The children also had the opportunity to make their own bird feeders and learnt about the importance of providing food for birds. Through focused learning times, they embarked on a fascinating journey about different bird species with activities such as bird bingo, flashcards and stories which expanded their knowledge of bird identification. As part of our outdoor play, our children also carried out a ‘We’re going on a Bird Hunt Adventure’ armed with binoculars to spot our feathered friends.
Children’s Mental Health Week & National Story Telling Week
In January, we also celebrated Children's Mental Health Week, which coincided with National Storytelling Week. Our nursery embraced this opportunity to focus on the well-being of our little ones, combining it with the joy of storytelling. Our reception area transformed into a cozy corner filled with masses of beloved books, inviting children of all ages to immerse themselves into a story or two. Alongside captivating tales, we offered well-being breakfasts, soothing yoga activities, enriching local trips and lots of other activities all aimed at promoting the well-being of our children.
As always, we are immensely grateful to our dedicated team for facilitating these fantastic opportunities for our children.
Upcoming Events
World Book Day 2024
World Book Day falls on Thursday 7th March and it’s one of our favourite events of the year. This is a nationwide celebration of authors, illustrators and books. We invite your children to come dressed up as a book character of their choice for the day, whether it’s animals, classical fairy tale favourites, superheroes or princesses. We invite you and your child to be as imaginative as you like. This event promises to deliver a day of fun and literary adventures.
British Science Week
In March, we will spend an exciting week of exploration and discovery during British Science Week. And this is where we would like to reach out to our community for a little assistance. If any of our families work in schools or have connections to educational settings and would be willing to donate any child-friendly science-related items, we would be incredibly grateful. Whether it’s empty bottles, petri dishes, food colouring, pipettes, foil, science materials, beakers, weighing scales, magnifying glasses, goggles or even old science books. Every contribution helps to enrich our children's learning experiences.
Staffing Updates
Amy, our Administrator is sadly departing Team Horfield. She has found a new role that better suits her family routine. We’re so grateful for the warmth and dedication she has bought into our community, and we wish her all the best. Amy’s last day will be Wednesday 20th March.
Assessments
I wanted to take a moment to shed light on our assessment procedures and how they play a crucial role in your child's developmental journey.
It's essential to note that our Practitioners can only assess children based on what they observe during your child’s time at our nursery. It's quite common for Practitioners to make judgments regarding a child's development based on what they see during nursery life. However, it's also common for parents to sometimes disagree with certain statements made in the assessments. This discrepancy often arises because children are unique individuals who may behave differently in various environments. Please don't worry if you find yourself in this situation. As your child becomes more settled into the routine of nursery, Practitioners typically witness significant growth and progress in their development as your child becomes more comfortable.
When children initially join us, we conduct something called a baseline assessment to understand their current developmental stage. This is usually conducted once the child is settled and Practitioners have built up lots of knowledge about them. It's important to remember that children behave and learn differently in a nursery environment compared to their home. Therefore, if a practitioner mentions observations that differ from what you see at home, it's natural to have concerns. Rest assured, as your child adapts to the nursery environment and routine, their development will become more evident.
Around the age of two and a half to three years, we conduct a mandatory assessment known as the 2-year check, as required by the Early Years Foundation Stage. This assessment is a legal requirement and allows us to effectively monitor your child's progress.
Furthermore, please know that we only conduct assessments three times a year and we typically only assess children who we believe may benefit from one. This could be due to various factors such as learning English as an additional language, having additional needs or perhaps they may require support in a specific area of development. There are many factors considered for a Practitioner to carry out an assessment and rest assured we will only do one if we feel it’s necessary and beneficial for your child.
Assessments are an excellent way of monitoring a child's development and can help Practitioners implement interventions if necessary. We want to assure you that our goal is to work in partnership with you to ensure we are collectively supporting your child's growth and development. And please feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns regarding your child’s assessment or development. We are always committed to providing support to your child’s journey with us.
Date Reminders
Parent’s Evening
This year’s parent’s evenings will be on Tuesday 23rd April and Thursday 24th October. This will give you the opportunity for a 10 minute chat with your child’s Key Person to discuss their progress, development and any questions you may have. Please note that we don’t offer parent’s evening slots for children who have been with us less than two months.
Deer Room Pre-school Graduation
It may be a while away but you know it’s going to come fast. This year’s Pre-school graduation will take place on the afternoon of Saturday 20th July where we will celebrate the accomplishments of our Pre-school children as they take their next big step to primary school.
Friendly Reminders
Nappy Creams
Please provide nappy cream with your child’s name on it. This ensures we can attend to their needs effectively.
No mobile phones
We have noticed an increase in parents using mobile phones inside the nursery. Please be reminded that the use of mobiles is prohibited onsite. This policy is in place to safeguard our children. Please do not be offended if a staff member reminds you of this rule.
Pre-existing Injuries
If your child arrives with an injury such as a cut, bruise, bump or any other wounds, it's crucial that you fill out a pre-existing injury form the moment you drop them into the nursery. This helps us ensure proper care and documentation for your child's well-being.
End Of The Day Pick Up
Please ensure punctuality when picking up your child at the end of the day as late arrivals can disrupt our closing routine. Handovers will not be given to families who arrive after 6 p.m. as our staff need to finish promptly to return to their own families. If you wish to have time to chat with our practitioners, we encourage you to arrive early.
Thank you for your attention on this lengthy newsletter. If you have any questions or anything you’d like to discuss, feel free to reach out. We continue to look forward to providing the best care and education for your little ones.
See you around the nursery.
Jojo, Jenny and Team Horfield
November Newsletter 2023
Dear Parents & Carers,
I hope this newsletter finds you all well. As the season becomes crisp and cold, I’d like to share some exciting happenings and other important information from our Horfield nursery.
World Space Week
Read on to find out what cosmic journey your little ones embarked on...
Hedgehog Room- Babies
Our babies had a blast exploring the mysteries of space through play. They used their little hands to experience cosmic playdough along with other space themed sensory activities that enhanced their fine motor skills. They also got creative with crafting their own alien contact hats and delved into galaxy art play, sparking their creativity and imagination. The babies also engaged with songs about Zooming to the Moon and touch and feel books about astronauts, space buggys and stars, these activities allow our babies to develop a love for storytelling.
Squirrel Room & Otter Room- Toddlers
Our toddlers delved into some artistic teamwork by building a giant rocket together, this activity encouraged collaboration and helped develop their motor skills. They also explored cosmos face painting that allowed them to learn about celestial objects, as well as explore being imaginative. Toddlers also got involved in our culinary experience of baking space rock cookies where they explored basic cooking skills, as well as learnt about shapes, sizes, quantities and textures. Other exciting activities were alien scavenger hunts and space themed circle times about Blasting off to the Moon, as well as oodles of galaxy themed stories.
Badger Room & Deer Room- Rising 3’s and Preschool
Our bigger children of the nursery embarked on a comprehensive journey of learning. They dived into classic stories with props, like "Whatever Next," where a bear finds his own rocket and picnics on the moon. The use of props during story telling allows our children to have an interactive experience. They explored our solar system and soaked up key facts about each planet and they moved onto an artistic journey as they worked together to paint these stunning planets. The children also got involved in various space themed arts and crafts, where they crafted their own play dough aliens and rockets. These activities nurtured their imaginations and encouraged them to invent their own stories. They were also captivated by the story of "Man on the Moon," learning about the life of an astronaut, this added a real-world perspective to their space exploration adventures.
Each age group had a unique experience, ensuring not only did they have fun but also gained valuable skills during World Space Week. And to add to all the excitement, our awesome kitchen team (George & Natalie) served up an incredible galaxy themed menu which delighted our little astronauts. It was a joy to see our children so eager to explore and learn, and we can’t wait to do it all again next year. We are proud of our team for facilitating such an epic week of fun filled learning.
Black history Month
For October, our nursery embarked on a month of wonderful activities and learning experiences based on Black History Month. It was a time of exploration, creativity and celebration of African and African American culture.
Djembe Drumming & Dancing
Our children had a blast during their circle time sessions, which were centered around the rich traditions of African culture. They danced and drummed to the rhythmic beats of a Djembe drum, experiencing the joy of music and movement. The smiles on their faces as they explored the sounds of the drum were truly heartwarming. (Fun fact about Jenny our Deputy Manager, she has been drumming for 12 years and is currently in a band called Afon Sistema)
Black History Book Display
All age groups enjoyed our book display that had an array of age-appropriate books based on the theme of Black History Month. They were captivated by various classic tales such as ‘Handa’s surprise’ and ‘We’re going On A Lion Hunt’. Our book collection also introduced our children on historical figures such as Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King Jr and other influential individuals who made significant contributions to Black history.
Culinary Experiences
Following the storytelling sessions, children had the opportunity to get involved with the story by trying the exotic fruits that Handa carried on her journey. It was a fantastic opportunity for them to explore new flavors and expand their palates while connecting with the story's cultural context. In addition to our activities, the baking of Jamaican ginger cake was another hands-on experience that allowed the children to appreciate the culinary heritage of the Caribbean. And once again, our fabulous kitchen team whipped up a Black History Month themed menu that brought the richness of African and African-American cuisine to our tables. The children enjoyed delicious dishes inspired by various cultural traditions, further enhancing their understanding and appreciation of diverse foods.
These activities weren't just fun, they were educational experiences that provided a platform for children to learn about different cultures, traditions and history. By teaching them about diversity and the importance of celebrating it, we aim to foster a deep sense of understanding and inclusivity from a young age.
We are proud to be committed to fostering an environment where cultural diversity is celebrated, allowing our children to learn, grow and develop an appreciation for culture from around the world. As we reflect on the enriching experiences from our Black History Month, we would love for you to reach out to us and make suggestions of any ideas, cultural traditions or celebrations you would like us to deliver to our children. Your involvement will not only enhance our curriculum but also foster love and respect for different cultures among our children. We believe that celebrating diverse backgrounds is essential and your input would be much appreciated.
Reminders
Illness Policy
As we are now in the flu/cold season, please kindly remember our illness policy. If your child is unwell with symptoms such as a fever, heavy cough or they are generally poorly, we appreciate you keeping them at home for rest and recover. This will help maintain a healthy environment for our children and staff.
No Mobile Phones
To ensure the safety and privacy of all children, we kindly request that mobile phones not be used on-site. This policy is in place to uphold safeguarding measures and your cooperation in refraining from mobile phone use during your time at the nursery is greatly appreciated.
6pm Closure
A gentle reminder that our nursery closes promptly at 6pm. This ensures our dedicated practitioners have valuable time to be with their families too. If you require a handover, please aim to arrive with plenty of time before 6pm. Kindly note that handovers cannot be accommodated past 6pm to ensure a smooth transition for our staff to close their rooms. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in respecting our closing hours.
Events
27th November Christmas Jumper and Clothing Swap
For the week commencing 27th November, we're excited to announce our Christmas jumper swap event. This initiative not only saves you money but also promotes sustainability by reusing jumpers. Here's how it works: Bring in gently used or outgrown Christmas jumpers or Christmas clothing and exchange them for another one. It's a fantastic way to refresh your child's festive wardrobe without spending extra money and contributes to reducing textile waste which benefits our planet.
29th November Spooky S’mores 5.30pm-7.00pm
Last call for our upcoming S'mores evening, a delightful family event filled with warmth and gooey treats. We still have a few remaining spaces available for families and children to join in the fun. Secure your spot by contacting us at horfield@snapdragonsnursery.com
Friday 8th December Preschool Nativity
FAO Preschool families, the countdown to our nativity is well on the way and the anticipation is building as we prepare to showcase our little stars on the stage, spreading love and joy with their adorable performances. By now you will have been made aware of your child’s performance time, if not, please speak to a member of staff in the office and they can assist you.
Monday 11th December Christmas Party
Get ready for some festive fun! You're cordially invited to join us for our Christmas Party on Monday 11th December starting at 3:00 PM then wrapping up the celebration by 4:30 PM. It's a delightful occasion filled with merriment, activities and festive cheer. Children attending nursery on this day will be part of our special festivities. However, we extend a warm welcome to children who don't usually attend on Mondays, provided they are accompanied by an adult. To secure your spot, please contact us on the above email address. Festive clothes and Christmas jumpers are encouraged.
Friday 15th December Christmas Lunch
Our scrumptious Christmas lunch will be served to the children on Friday 15th December, and it will be sure to fill their tummies with joy. And once again, festive clothes/ Christmas jumpers are encouraged.
Christmas Closure
And lastly, we would like to remind you of our Christmas closure dates. Children attending term time only will finish on Friday 15th December. All year-round children will finish on Friday 22nd December. Our nursery will reopen on Tuesday 2nd January.
As always, we thank you for entrusting us with your children’s early education. Over the next few weeks, we look forward to creating more memories as we enjoy the fun build up to Christmas and bring on the festive spirit. See you around the nursery.
Jojo, Jenny & Team Horfield
September Newsletter 2023
Dear Parents and carers,
We hope this newsletter finds you all well. As always, we have lots of exciting news and updates to share from our nursery.
Art Week Celebrations
Art week was a creative blast in each of our rooms. The children were so enthusiastic to discover their inner artists as they explored the work of some world-famous artists and engaged in a whole variety of creative and artistic experiences. Here's a glimpse of what each room has been up to…
Babies:
Our babies worked together and practiced their fine motor skills by using paint brushes to paint giant canvases that fostered their creativity and dexterity. They also had fun experimenting with colours and foam by using kitchen utensils as well as their little hands which enhanced their sensory experience.
Toddlers & Younger Toddlers:
Toddlers dived into the world of art by channelling their inner Picasso. They created masterpieces through face painting and moulded their imaginations with clay. There was lots of fun had and plentiful smiles as they let their creativity flow with spray bottle art.
Preschool:
Our new preschoolers embarked on an artistic journey through the works of Vincent van Gogh as well as other artists. They delved into the world of sunflowers, creating their own interpretations through drawing and painting. They also produced large scale drawings which sparked conversations about colours and artistic expressions.
We are incredibly proud of our little artists and the fantastic staff who facilitated these enriching experiences.
Chef of the Year
We are immensely proud to announce that our very own Chef, George has been nominated for the prestigious "Nursery Chef” award at this year’s NMT Nursery Awards. George has been a culinary wizard in our nursery kitchen, creating delicious and nutritious meals that our little ones adore. (Fun fact about George, he is also a professional Irish dancer!) Join us in cheering for him and wishing him the best of luck at the upcoming awards ceremony this November.
Upcoming Events
Charity Cake Sale
On Wednesday 20th September, we will be hosting a delightful cake sale to raise money for Bristol Children’s Charity. On this day, please head to the reception area and pick up a delicious treat and help us raise funds for this wonderful charity.
World Space Week
On Wednesday 4th to 10th October, we will be celebrating World Space Week. Our children will embark on a cosmic journey for the week to learn all about the mysteries of space. As part of the celebrations, on Wednesday 4th we would like to invite the children to dress up as astronauts, stars, planets, aliens or any space themed fancy dress. To complement this, our talented chef, George will prepare a space themed menu that will transport our children to the far reaches of the galaxy.
Halloween Party
More fancy-dress fun! (Fun fact about Jojo, Halloween is her favorite time of year!). Calling all little ghouls and goblins. Our spooktacular Halloween party will be held on Tuesday 31st October at 3pm. If your child doesn’t attend nursery on a Tuesday, they are welcome to come in and join in with the fun, providing they have an adult to accompany them for the event. Parents are also welcome to join in so if you would like to attend, please drop an email to our office to reserve a space: horfield@snapdragonsnusery.com
Reminders
Toys:
We kindly ask that you refrain from bringing personal toys into the nursery. Bringing toys from home can sometimes lead to misplacement and sharing difficulties. However, we do encourage the use of comforters or familiar items that provide comfort to your child during unsettled periods and sleep times.
Weather Appropriate Clothing:
As we transition into cooler and wet weather, please ensure that your child is dressed appropriately for the changing seasons. Labelling your child's clothing and belongings is essential to prevent mix-ups. Please note that we prefer true waterproof clothing for rainy days rather than shower-proof items to keep your child dry and comfortable during outdoor play.
Named Water Bottle:
Each child should have a water bottle with their name clearly visible. Hydration is essential, especially during active playtime, and having a personal water bottle helps us ensure that your child stays refreshed throughout the day. For mealtimes, your child will be provided with an additional cup/sippy cup for drinking.
Teething Gel/ Nappy Creams:
For our younger children who may be teething, please provide a labelled teething gel if needed and let the team know that it is in your child’s bag if needed. Additionally, if your child requires nappy cream, we do provide Sudocrem but you are welcome to provide your own with your child’s name clearly visible. Your child's comfort is our priority, and these items help us provide personalized care.
Staff Changes
Our beloved Baby Room Head, Cassie will be sadly departing our setting and her last day with us will be Thursday 19th October. Cassie has been an integral part of our Snapdragons family and we are sad to see her go, but we also celebrate as she embarks on a new journey in her life.
We're thrilled to introduce a couple of new faces to our nursery team. Paige and Kiane who is based in our Squirrel Toddler room and Ceren who is based in our Hedgehog Baby room. Please join us in giving them a warm welcome as they both settle into our nursery community.
That’s all for now. Stay tuned and we look forward to sharing more updates in our next newsletter. Thank you for being a part of our wonderful nursery community. Your support and involvement make all the difference. See you around the nursery!
Jojo, Jenny and Team Horfield
Welcome to 2021!
Welcome back!
We hope you had a lovely Christmas, despite the very odd and unsettling times. The children have settled back into nursery life here at Horfield and we are so excited to show you what we have been up to!
Snapdragons Sports Week
“This is so amazing. Can I share it on Instagram?”
The children have kept warm in the icy weather this month by taking part in Snapdragons’ sports week. Physical activity has countless health benefits for children. Not only does it improve a child’s overall health and fitness but it also benefits our mental health and cognitive development too. Here, at Horfield all our children (from our Baby room, right up to Pre-school) have been getting involved in a wide range of physical activities throughout the week. We even participated in Joe Wicks’ PE challenge. Pre-school impressed everyone here at Snapdragons and EVEN IMPRESSED JO! That’s right! Jo Wicks saw our workout video on Twitter, retweeted and asked if he could tag us on Instagram! A huge well done to everyone involved.
Check out our workout video here. https://twitter.com/horfieldsnap/status/1350016587445710848
Pre-school awards ceremony
Following on from sports week, the Pre-school children attended an awards ceremony to collect their medals.
EYFS - Personal, Social, Emotional Development - Welcomes and values praise for what they have done
We are Problem Solvers!
The children in our Younger Toddler room have been demonstrating their curiosity by exploring shape and space in their environment. They used measuring tapes, rulers and pencils to investigate shape and size.
EYFS - Mathematics: Shape Space & Measure:
Showing a ‘can do’ attitude
The children in our Older Toddler room showed great confidence when using their own ideas to create different structures and arrangements. The children demonstrated a 'can do' attitude when using their imaginations and making houses for bugs.
Experimenting…
The Pre-school room have shown an interest in experiments, so following our discussion about icy weather and noticing the ice melt away in the garden, we decided to carry out a salt crystal experiment to observe the crystals growing. First we poured some water and salt into a cup and then mixed it together. Next we attached a piece of string to a stick so that the string was sitting in the water. Then we placed the cup in a warm environment and waited patiently for the magic to happen…the children were fascinated to see how the salt crystals had grown, they looked closely to observe the change.
We have been busy!
The children in our Baby room have enjoyed making pictures using various resources. It is important to provide young children with these opportunities so that they can learn, play and enjoy the physical and sensory experiences.
EYFS - Physical Development- Holds pen or crayon using a whole hand grasp and makes random marks with different strokes.
The children have also been interested in singing nursery rhymes. Signing and Makaton are great ways of supporting your baby’s communication and language, children can recognise important words and use the sign to ‘talk’ before using speech. The children have demonstrated their listening and understanding skills by joining in with the signs and actions at song time!
EYFS - Communication and Language- Enjoys rhymes and demonstrates listening by trying to join in with the actions or vocalisations.
Christmas at Horfield!
Happy New Year from everyone at Snapdragons Horfield!
We hope you all had an enjoyable Christmas break. It has been so lovely to see the children return!
Have a look at what we have been up to during the month of December!
The children at Snapdragons had such an exciting month getting ready for Christmas! They enjoyed getting involved in all our wonderful Christmas activities from wrapping presents and baking through to performing our pre-school nativity and dressing up to raise money for the National Elf Service day!
Although things were a little different this year, we still made sure we felt the magic of Christmas here at Snapdragons!
Take a look at what we’ve been up to…
Santa Claus is coming to town!
The children were excited about the prospect of Father Christmas visiting their homes and we talked about the elves getting busy in the North Pole wrapping presents to load onto the sleigh. We decided to write letters to Father Christmas and wrap our own presents here in pre-school! The children chose their own wrapping paper and ribbons, they stayed extremely focused when using their fine motor skills to wrap up their gifts. They let loose their vivid imaginations on the subject of what to ask Father Christmas for and wrote letters to Father Christmas all the way in the North Pole!
Baby room have been making biscuits!
The children in the baby room baked biscuits this month, they have enjoyed helping pour the ingredients and mixing with a spoon. We were very excited to see the finished result.
Look what we’ve made…
Pre-school made salt dough ornaments for their Christmas trees. The children carefully listened to the instructions and got to work; they enjoyed using the rolling pins to roll out their dough and then they chose a cutter to make their own Christmas ornament.
National Elf Service day
On Thursday 17th December Snapdragons Horfield celebrated National Elf Service day, the Snappy Team and all of our lovely families worked together to raise money for our local hospitals. We are extremely proud to say that we have reached our target of £500! We are still raising money on our Just Giving page, so please donate what you can and help us continue to raise money for such an amazing charity.
Here we are dressed up as Elves and our favourite Christmas characters spreading the Christmas cheer across the nursery!
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/horfieldsnap?utm_source=Twitter&utm_medium=fundraising&utm_content=horfieldsnap&utm_campaign=pfp-tweet&utm_term=973bd4faa70d4ba783cc0a3957f54547
January 2020
Happy New Year!
Welcome to 2020!
We’ve kicked started the new year with focusing on our story of the month, The tiger who came to tea. The children have been getting up to all sorts of creative activities, storytelling, and recreating our own tea party in Toddlers!
Sunshine circles….In the January sun!
The Pre-school children had a lovely afternoon in the sun taking part in sunshine circles. Sunshine Circles is an interactive circle time that creates an atmosphere of fun, caring, acceptance and encouragement that leads to development in personal, social and emotional.
We also encourage the three rules of Sunshine Circles… No Hurts, Stick Together and Have Fun!
Forest School is underway! To start 2020 we have practiced using tools such as a bow saw and a drill to make medals. They also explored clay, charcoal and home made paints. Even rain didn’t stop us from great fun!
We’re Outstandingly GOOD!
A big round of applause and well deserved congratulations for our fantastic staff after our recent OFSTED inspection. The inspector was impressed and very complimentary, saying:
“Children flourish in this highly welcoming and nurturing nursery.”
“Staff value all the children as unique individuals. They have very high expectations and their enthusiasm to be there for the children is inspiring and infectious.”
“Babies are cherished and form close bonds with the calm and considerate staff who care for them. They enjoy the frequent cuddles and comfort they receive as and when needed.”
“Children are exceedingly curious and enthusiastic. They enjoy being outside and take part in fantastic outdoor experiences.”
“All children show an excellent attitude towards learning and their behaviour is exemplary.”
Overall the nursery was graded Good with Outstanding areas:
The quality of education: Good
Behaviour and attitudes: Outstanding
Personal development: Outstanding
Leadership and management: Good
Click below for OFSTED report:
December 2019
A very merry month of Christmas..
HO HO HO, OFF WE GO!
To start off December we thought it would be a great idea to spread some festive cheer at whitehall garden centre plus a visit to Shirehampton and Redland! The children had a busy morning exploring and taking in all the details of the fabulous decorations and displays throughout the garden centre. On our way to the exit we came across reindeers (real ones of course) the children were amazed and surprised that they even came to say hello!
Our adventure didn’t end at the garden centre, as on the way back to Horfield we stopped off at Shirehampton and Redland to present them with a festive hamper for all the hard working staff to wish them a very merry christmas from us all at Horfield!
A miracle in town!
“Our annual nativity plays in Preschool were fantastic all round. This year the play was ‘A miracle in Town.’
The children created a moving performance with wonderful singing and acting. A BIG round of applause to all the Pre-schoolers , and thank you to all the adults in attendance, you were a wonderful audience!”
Santa Claus is coming…. to Horfield!
We’ve had a special visitor from the north pole to join us for our Christmas parties, can you guess who it was?
We were all very excited to meet the man himself and to celebrate the festive period.
Silent night, Holy night..
All is calm, all is bright! The snappies Christmas carol night was a success, the staff put on a fantastic performance, followed with Niky’s solo which was a hit! we raised over £100 for the Marmalade Trust - a charity that tackles loneliness in Bristol. Thank you to all that was in attendance, we hope to see you for future events in 2020, watch this space.
All good in the Pud!
“Jamie Oliver retweeted us!
for our christmas lunch, the pre-schoolers done a fantastic job making over 90 yorkshire puddings from Jamie Oliver’s recipe book.
Jamie Oliver retweeted like and responded,
which made us all very excited!”
Books of the month - January 2020
The books of the month of January are the tiger who came to tea and poems for the very young.
Snappies superstars
Have you noticed a practitioner going above and beyond have you been impressed by a practitioners amazing story reading skills, does your child come home always talking about the same practitioner, do you love how well the team work together... Seen any of this going on? why not share this on our Snappies Superstar page and nominate an outstanding practitioner or team. Click on the big flashing star on any page of our website OR you can click below if you would like to vote now!
Meet and greet
If your child is transitioning to the next room, this is an opportunity for you to meet the staff and to be introduced to the room and a chance to explore the environment.
Babies moving to Younger Toddlers - Monday 27th January 2020 5-6pm
Younger Toddlers moving to Older Toddlers - Monday 3rd February 2020 5-6pm
Older Toddlers moving to Pre-School - Wednesday 5th February 2020 5-6pm
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
If your child has pre-existing medication before nursery, please complete the pre-existing medication form in your child’s base room then return it to the office once completed.
November 2019
Sparklers and Hot chocolate
Our sparklers and hot chocolate evening was a great success.
It was so lovely to see so many people join us to celebrate.
Thank you everyone for coming, we hope that you enjoyed it as much as we did
Throughout the nursery everyone has been having lots of fun raising money for BBC Children in Need.
The staff and the children have all been enjoying name the teddy, pajama day, superhero day, face painting, wearing spots for Pudsey and a yummy bake sale!
We have managed to raise over £200 for this fantastic cause. Thank you so much to everyone that joined in and donated.
Books of the month…
The books of the month for December are The Gruffalo’s Child and The Elves and the Shoemaker.
Snapdragons Christmas Carol Concert
Our lovely staff will be hosting a Christmas Carol Concert in aid of The Marmalade Trust. The Marmalade trust are a wonderful charity that are trying hard to tackle loneliness at Christmas.
Tickets are £2 each or £5 for a family ticket,hey can be purchased in the office.
We hope to see many of you there!
Dates for your diary…
Friday 6th December - Preschool Nativity. Please pay for the DVD/Video link from the office.
Monday 9th December - Younger toddler Christmas party.
Tuesday 10th December - Preschool Christmas party.
Thursday 12th December - Older toddler Christmas party.
Monday 16th December - Babies Christmas party.
Friday 20th December - Christmas lunch.
Notes…
With the weather becoming colder, can you please ensure that your child attends nursery with appropriate labelled cold weather clothing. Including winter coats, hats and gloves.
All DVD/Video links for the Nativity need to be paid for in the office ASAP. This will be cash only.
The photographs from Concept Photography are back. Please pop into the office and collect your photographs.
Snappy Superstars
Have you noticed a practitioner going above and beyond, have you been impressed by a practitioners amazing story reading skills, does your child come home always talking about the same practitioner, do you love how well the team work together... Seen any of this going on? why not share this on our Snappies Superstar page and nominate an outstanding practitioner or team. Click on the big flashing star on any page of our website.
July 2019
Goodbye Preschool!
Thank you all so much for coming along to our preschool graduation. It was excellent fun and we hope that you all enjoyed yourselves as much as we did!
To watch our graduation video, follow the link below.
Goodbye and good luck in your new adventures at big school!
If you’re happy and you know it…
Clap your hands!
Babies have been having huge amounts of fun singing and dancing. They love to get their bodies moving!
Younger toddlers have been using the dinosaurs to explore a range of objects and textures. These include:
Rocks
Sand
Sticks
Rice
Shaving foam
Touch & Feel
Is it hard? Is it soft? Is it rough? Is it smooth?
Crafty Creations!
Older Toddlers had huge amounts of fun getting messy and creative with arts and crafts this month.
They were inspired by the books of the month, “The Gruffalo” & “Where the Wild Things are”, to create their own creatures using lots of different materials.
Books of the month…
Books of the month for August are We’re Going on a Bear Hunt & Hairy McClary.
Snappy Superstars
Have you noticed a practitioner going above and beyond, have you been impressed by a practitioners amazing story reading skills, does your child come home always talking about the same practitioner, do you love how well the team work together... Seen any of this going on? why not share this on our Snappies Superstar page and nominate an outstanding practitioner or team. Click on the big flashing star on any page of our website.
August 2019
Splish Splash!
Babies have been learning all about washing and cleaning.
They have made the most of the nice weather in the garden and taken the time to give their toys a good old clean.
They really enjoyed the bubbles, even if they did end up on their and the practitioners face!
Younger Toddlers were discovering lots of different fruits.
They really enjoyed feeling, smelling and tasting the fruit!
Smile!
Older Toddlers have been talking all about their morning routine. They have been showing off their great teeth brushing skills!
Pre-school have been embracing “Snapdragons forest” learning …
They have been putting their concentration and hand eye coordination to the test.
They especially liked the tools!
Books of the month…
September books of the month are The Very Hungry Caterpillar, The Gingerbread Man & Handa’s Surprise.
Introducing “Snapdragons Forest” Learning
Paulina is currently studying for her Level 3 in Forest school. Please keep a lookout for new and exciting outdoor learning projects!
Snappy Superstars
Have you noticed a practitioner going above and beyond, have you been impressed by a practitioners amazing story reading skills, does your child come home always talking about the same practitioner, do you love how well the team work together... Seen any of this going on? why not share this on our Snappies Superstar page and nominate an outstanding practitioner or team. Click on the big flashing star on any page of our website.
September 2019
Preschool and older toddlers really enjoyed their visit from Zoolab this month!
Everyone was intrigued by the different animals they were shown by the Ranger.
The children were taught all about:
Rats
Giant snails
Bearded Dragons
Spiders
Younger toddlers have been using their skills to independently chop their vegetables to help make spring rolls. Yummy!
Thank you to everyone who helped us with our Macmillan coffee morning.
We had a wonderful coffee and cake filled day and raised an amazing £212.80!
Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No! It’s Katie!
Katie bravely jumped from 10,000 ft in the air to raise money for The Wallace & Gromit Grand Appeal. Amazingly she managed to raise over £700! Thank you to everybody that donated to such a wonderful cause.
Congratulations…
Well done to Faith who has completed her Early Years Studies at University, and to Beth K who has been accepted onto Early Years Teacher Training.
Welcome…
We would like to wish a warm welcome to Chloe who will be joining us next month as an apprentice in our Baby room.
We would also like to welcome back Allayha who has been spending some time at our Redland branch, and also to Abi who has returned from her summer away!
…Goodbye
We are saying a fond farewell to Polly, who is moving on to a new nursery. Good luck in your new role!
Dates for your diary
10/10/2019 - Hello Yellow. Please join us wearing yellow for world mental health day.
17/10/2019 - Concept Photography will be here. Please feel free to bring in siblings for photographs.
24/10/2019 - Parents evening. Appointments can be made with your child’s key worker.
31/10/2019 - Halloween Parties. Each room will be hosting their own spooky halloween party. Fancy dress is more than welcome!
Books of the month
The books of the month for October are Meg And Mog, Owl babies, and Room On The Broom.
Snappy Superstars
Have you noticed a practitioner going above and beyond, have you been impressed by a practitioners amazing story reading skills, does your child come home always talking about the same practitioner, do you love how well the team work together... Seen any of this going on? why not share this on our Snappies Superstar page and nominate an outstanding practitioner or team. Click on the big flashing star on any page of our website.