FAQ’s
With the help of our current families we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions for new parents to Cocoon Childcare. The aim is to help you and your child settle in as smoothly as possible. As always we believe that our partnership with our parents is paramount.
If you have something in particular to ask us, please contact us today on +353-1-419 9999 or email info@cocoonchildcare.ie and a member of our team will be delighted to assist you.
What should I put in my child’s bag?
We suggest you have a small dedicated bag for your child for creche with a spare seasonally appropriate change of clothes. This bag is placed on your child’s hook and will go home at the end of each day.
What do I need to supply?
Parents will be asked to provide nappies and cream that are clearly labelled. We supply water wipes and cotton wool for your convenience. For families with babies please bring pre-prepared bottles and formula/breastmilk. If a comforter such as pacifiers, blanket or soft toys is required, please feel free to bring this along too.
Where do children sleep?
Our Babies have their own sleep room adjacent to baby rooms. Each child has their own name labelled sheet and blanket which is stored and laundered in the centre. We only use cellular blankets for under 2’s.
For our older nappers we adjust our rooms at sleep times and the children sleep on individual age appropriate beds.
How do you promote health at Cocoon?
We plan a healthy balanced menu which covers all the food groups and meets recommended guidelines. Our food is prepared daily by our in-house chefs. Our menus are displayed on our notice board and are rotated every four weeks.
Children are encouraged to wash their hands before snack and meal times. We promote self-care by encouraging use of tissues, toileting care and appropriate disposal of waste items etc.
Do you cater for special dietry requirements/alergies?
Yes, we can cater for all dietary needs such as vegetarian options, Halal meat, Lactose and Gluten free options. If your child has any health requirements or allergies, we would devise a Healthcare Plan for your child e.g. Epi-pen or inhaler usage.
Do you have a part-time care option?
We offer part-time options in certain centre locations. Our minimum part-time option is 2 full days per week. We believe that your child will benefit from building strong trusting relationships with their educarers and peers.
Do you have a settling in period?
We work with each family according to their individual needs and generally recommend a period of 3-5 days for settling your child. This usually comprises of short transitional times of stay to allow your child to settle independently and confidently. Every parent will also complete an ‘All About Me’ form so that your child’s key carer has an opportunity to gain a full picture of your child in every sense. We want to make your child’s settling period as easy as possible for you and your child.
How am I informed about my child’s day?
A written daily report is given to you at the end of each day. These daily reports will contain information such as meal times, toileting, sleep routines etc. You will also receive a verbal handover from your child’s key carer.
Do the children get outside to play?
All our centres have fully equipped outdoor play areas with all weather safety surfaces. Raingear and wellies are provided by you and kept in the centre. All ages have daily outdoor play.
Can I come and view the centre before enrolling my child?
We encourage all our prospective parents to come and visit our centre and meet the manager before booking a place with us. We appreciate this is an important decision for you and your child we want to make sure that you are satisfied to proceed with your booking.