Many parents worry themselves over whether their toddlers are ready for pre-school, especially if they’ve had little separation from their youngster.

Those first steps of independence can be an emotional time for both parent and child but finding the perfect pre-school facility can make the process a lot easier to cope with and give you the reassurance you need during those early days.

Hopscotch Day Nursery, one of Brentwood’s most popular childcare facilities, understands the anxiety that separation can bring when it comes to choosing your child’s pre-school and does everything possible to ensure the youngsters under its care feel as happy and secure as they do at home.

The nursery, which is nestled in the grounds of Brentwood’s Kelvedon Hatch Primary School, offers free pre-school places as part of the Government’s funding scheme for children aged three to four and ensures both parents and children have adequate time to settle and become familiar with their surroundings before regular sessions commence.

Parents often feel uneasy about changes to their child’s routine and the way they are cared for. Hopscotch firmly believes that parents know their children best and actively encourages and values their input. This helps key staff understand the child’s personal needs and ensure continuity of care as well as make sure that their visits are as enjoyable as possible.

Due to its location within the school grounds, the nursery has use of some great outdoor space - a large garden, the sports field and the school playgrounds. There is also a swimming pool for the summer months and an ICT suite currently used once a week, which is perfect for active children.

Liz Breslin, nursery owner, said: “It’s completely normal for parents to feel anxious and emotional when considering where to send their children to pre-school and whether or not they are ready. We’ve been there too and have made the same decisions so we work hard to build confidence in our toddlers and parents and provide lots of settling-in time so they become familiar with our nursery and staff.

“Pre-school is an exciting experience for toddlers and offers stimulating activities to stretch skills and imagination and prepare your child for when they begin school. If you’re worried about how your youngster will cope with their new independence, it can be helpful to take them to toddler groups in the months before to get them used to socialising and making new friends. 

“Hopscotch has built up a solid reputation over the past nine years and is often the first choice for parents looking for nursery or pre-school places. We pride ourselves on creating an environment in which children will flourish and become more confident and independent and have a long track record of delivering success.”

Hopscotch also provides full day-care to children aged between three months and 5 years of age. For more information, call 01277 372826 or click here.