Frequently Asked Questions
Why choose us?
Can I get help with my fees?
Can I use my free (funded) hours at Smart Cookies?
Yes, happy to discuss this with you.
What is the staff / child ratio?
At all times, Smart Cookies adheres to the child/ staff ratio, which is regulated by the Care Inspectorate. We often have additional staff.
Our under 2’s - 1 staff to 3 children
2- 3 year old - 1 staff to 5 children
3-5 year old- 1 staff to 8 children
How many children will be in my child’s room?
The size of the room (floor area) determines how many children can attend at any one time.
Sunshine Room (approx 18 month) max. 9 children
The Cottage (18 months - 2 yrs) max. 9 children
The Garden Room ( 2-3 yrs) max. 14 children
The Upstairs area ( 3- 5 yrs) max. 34 children
How will my child be settled into nursery?
What if my circumstances change?
The Manager is happy to discuss and support you through any changes.
What happens if my child becomes unwell?
Staff are trained in paediatric first aid. We have a digital thermometer to take your child’s temperature. If staff believe that your child is too unwell to stay at nursery, they will call you to collect them. Smart Cookies uses the Health Protection Scotland Guidance on exclusion periods. If your child has a long term medical condition e.g. asthma, then they will have a Care Plan (agreed with you) which details what we will do if your child becomes unwell. With Parents permission we are happy to take your child across the road to our local pharmacist for advice.
What qualifications do staff have?
Permanent Staff are qualified to at least HNC/ SVQ 3 level or above. Our trainees/apprentices are working towards completing an SVQ level 3. Staff are trained in paediatric first aid, food hygiene and child protection. Staff take part in regular training courses throughout the year.
Can i phone to check my child is OK?
Of course, You are welcome to phone at anytime to speak with a member of staff caring for your child.
How will I know what my child has been doing throughout the day?
You will be given feedback from a member of staff when you collect your child.
Children under 3 years who attend The Sunshine Room, The Cottage and The Garden Room ( downstairs) will have a ‘Home Link Book’ . This book records what your child has had to eat and drink, any naps, their nappy changes and the activities your child has taken part in each day that they attend. Your child’s progress is recorded within this book, using observations, photos and examples of your child’s work.
When your child moves upstairs (approx 3 years old) , they will no longer have a Home Link Book but instead will be giving a Personal Learning Journal (PLJ). Staff, children and parents/carers can add to this journal at any point. Each day you will receive an email ‘ Daily Diary’ which gives you an overview of the activities the children have been engaged in.
What if someone else is picking up my child?
You must let us know if someone different is collecting your child. You will supply us with the person’s name and description. You will give them your unique password (chosen by you) If you do not inform us ahead of time we are required to phone you to check that you have authorised this arrangement.