Nurturing Children's Growth Post-COVID (Parents partnership)

As we are recovering from the shadows of COVID-19 lockdowns, the impact on our children's development continues to linger.

At Mandarin Ducklings Nurseries, we recognize the importance of providing support tailored to the unique needs of children navigating through these challenging times. Through our commitment to fostering holistic development, we have implemented initiatives aimed at nurturing children's persona, social, and emotional well-being in the post-COVID phase.

Embracing Nature: One of the cornerstones of our approach at Mandarin Ducklings Nurseries is reconnecting children with the natural world. We believe that spending time in nature is vital for fostering a sense of wonder and curiosity in children, which are essential elements of persona development. Through outdoor activities such as nature walks, gardening, and exploring natural habitats, children have the opportunity to engage their senses, stimulate their creativity, and develop a deep appreciation for the environment around them.

Facilitating Peer Interactions: Socialization is a fundamental aspect of childhood development, and the isolation experienced during COVID-19 lockdowns has underscored its importance. At Mandarin Ducklings Nurseries, we place a strong emphasis on facilitating peer interactions in a supportive and inclusive environment. Through structured group activities, collaborative projects, and free play opportunities, children learn valuable social skills such as communication, cooperation, and empathy, laying the foundation for healthy relationships and positive social development.

Promoting Emotional Literacy: The emotional toll of the pandemic has been significant for children, and nurturing emotional literacy is essential for their overall well-being. At Mandarin Ducklings Nurseries, we incorporate activities and resources that help children identify, understand, and express their emotions effectively. Through storytelling, role-playing, and mindfulness exercises, children learn to recognize and regulate their emotions, build resilience, and develop coping strategies for navigating life's challenges.

Establishing Wider Community Contact: Community engagement plays a vital role in supporting children's development beyond the nursery environment. At Mandarin Ducklings Nurseries, we actively collaborate with community partners to broaden children's exposure to diverse experiences and perspectives. Through partnerships with local sports club, community organizations, our local Park Rangers, children have the opportunity to participate in enriching activities, interact with different community members, and develop a sense of belonging and connection to the world around them.

At home, parents can also support children's development post-COVID. Encouraging outdoor exploration in local parks or green spaces, organizing playdates with peers, and engaging in open conversations about emotions and feelings are simple yet effective ways for parents to nurture their children's growth. Additionally, incorporating activities such as storytelling, art projects, and family outings to community events can further enrich children's learning experiences and strengthen family bonds.

By creating a supportive and stimulating environments at Nursery and home, we can empower the children to navigate the challenges of the post-pandemic world with confidence and resilience.

Recipe of the month – Chef’s recommendation

 Super green pasta 

Chef’s scores: 

● Easy to cook (1 being difficult and taking a long time – 5 being easiest): score 5 out of 5.
● Nutrition (1 low -5 highest): score 5 out of 5. This recipe has all the nutrients that we need   Spinach is a green leafy vegetable rich in iron, vitamins C and E, potassium, and magnesium and peas are a nutritious type of legume rich in several nutrients, such as plant-based protein, fibre and folate.

Chef’s comments: This recipe transforms greens into a silky pasta sauce which is a fantastic and creative way to incorporate more vegetables into your family's diet, especially for children who might be hesitant to eat them in their usual form.

 Ingredients (Serves 6):

500g penne pasta

1 onion finely chopped 

2 cloves garlic  peeled and grated

350g leeks chopped

150g defrosted frozen peas

150g creme fraiche

400g spinach

Salt and pepper

1tbsp parmesan cheese (optional)

 Method:

- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a non-stick frying pan then add the sliced onion and cook on medium heat until completely softened. 

- Add the grated garlic, leeks, and frozen peas and cook for 15 minutes or until completely softened

- Put the pasta in a pan of boiling water and cook to the instructions on the pack. Once cooked, drain and leave to one side.

- Place the spinach and salt in a pan and cover it with boiling water for 3 minutes until the spinach has wilted. Once wilted, drain the water add creme fraiche and blend using a hand blender (or pour the sauce into a normal blender) until smooth.

- Mix through the leeks and peas with the green sauce, and cook for another 5 minutes. Finally, stir through the pasta.

 Recipe tip:

Any mix of greens such as chard, cavolo nero kale, broccoli, courgette, and edamame can be used here. 

Early Education Hours and Financial Support for Working Parents

We are excited to share some important updates regarding the expansion of childcare support, as you may have already seen in recent media coverage. Starting April 2024, this support will be rolled out in phases, culminating in September 2025, where most working families with children under 5 will be eligible for up to 30 hours of childcare support per week. Here's what you need to know:

Phased Introduction of Expanded Childcare Support in the UK:

• From April 2024: Working parents of 2-year-olds will gain access to 15 hours of childcare support per week.

• From September 2024: This 15-hour support extends to working parents of children aged 9 months to 3 years.

• By September 2025: Eligible working parents of children under 5 will receive up to 30 hours of childcare per week.

These hours can be utilized over 38 weeks of the year (aligning with school terms) or spread throughout the year (up to 52 weeks), depending on your childcare provider's offerings.

Eligibility Criteria:

To qualify as an 'Eligible Working Parent':

Each parent must be employed, earning at least the equivalent of 16 hours a week at the national minimum/living wage (over £8,600 annually).

However, parents earning over £100,000 per year are not eligible for the Early Years Hours until the term after their child turns three.

Alternative Support for High-Income Earners:

For parents earning more than £100K annually, many employers now participate in the Workplace Nursery Scheme, which offers substantial support with childcare costs. Further details are available at the end of this letter.

Application Process for Two-Year-Old Funding:

Eligible parents can apply for the 15-hour childcare code for their two-year-old starting from 2 January 2024, with applications closing on 31 March 2024. The best time to apply is between mid-January and the end of February, allowing ample time for any additional information requests. How to apply please go to www.childcarechoices.gov.uk.

Early Year Hours Allocation:

These hours become available the term after your child reaches the eligible age. For example, if your child turns two on 1st April, you become eligible for Early Year Funding hours from 1st September 2024. Please note, our nursery, which operates beyond the standard 38 weeks, will proportionally stretch these hours across our full operating weeks (50.14 weeks per year).

Tax-Free Childcare Option:

In addition to the Early Year Hours, Eligible Working Parents can benefit from Tax-Free Childcare for various childcare services. This scheme offers up to £2,000 per year per child (or £4,000 for children with disabilities) off childcare costs. For every £8 deposited in a Tax-Free Childcare account, the government adds £2, allowing savings of up to £500 every 3 months per child, or £1,000 for children with disabilities. Families yet to sign up can check their eligibility and apply online.

Support for Parents Earning Over £100K:

For those with higher incomes, the Workplace Nursery Scheme provides significant financial assistance for nursery fees. This arrangement involves your employer to set up the scheme with Workplace Nursery. For more details, please visit Workplace Nursery: Savings for Nurseries, Parents, Employers (workplace-nursery.net).

We hope above information is helpful to you. We encourage you to visit the Childcarechoices.gov.uk website for more information about your eligibility and support options. Our management team is also available to answer any queries and assist you in navigating these new childcare support measures.

Get Ready to Start School in September: How Attending a Bilingual Montessori Nursery Makes the Transition Easier

Are you preparing your child for their first day of school in September? Starting school is an important milestone in a child's life, and it can bring a mix of excitement and apprehension. At Mandarin Ducklings Bilingual Montessori Nursery, we understand the significance of this transition and how attending a nursery can make it easier for your child. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of a bilingual Montessori nursery and how it can contribute to a smoother transition into formal education. Let's delve into the details!

The Power of a Bilingual Nursery

Enrolling your child in a bilingual nursery provides them with a unique opportunity to learn and embrace different languages and cultures from an early age. At Mandarin Ducklings, we offer a stimulating environment where children can immerse themselves in Mandarin language learning alongside English. Our dedicated educators, who are fluent in both languages, create a supportive atmosphere where children can naturally acquire language skills while engaging in various activities and play.

The Montessori Approach to Early Education

Our nursery follows the renowned Montessori approach to early education, which emphasises hands-on learning, independence, and the development of key skills. This approach is designed to foster a child's natural curiosity and love for learning, creating a solid foundation for their educational journey. Our Montessori-trained teachers guide children in their exploration of the environment, promoting self-paced learning and nurturing their individual strengths and interests.

Benefits of a Bilingual Montessori Nursery

Cognitive Development: Bilingualism has been shown to enhance cognitive abilities, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity. By exposing your child to Mandarin and English at an early age, our nursery nurtures their cognitive development and expands their linguistic and cultural horizons.

Cultural Awareness: A bilingual Montessori nursery provides a rich cultural experience for children, exposing them to different traditions, customs, and perspectives. This exposure fosters an appreciation for diversity and promotes cultural awareness and sensitivity.

Find the Best Bilingual Montessori Nursery Near You

When searching for a bilingual Montessori nursery near me, it is important to consider various factors to ensure the best educational experience for your child. Look for a nursery that offers a nurturing environment, qualified Montessori-trained teachers, and a strong bilingual curriculum. Mandarin Ducklings Bilingual Montessori Nursery is proud to provide high-quality education that meets these criteria and more.

Embrace the Mandarin Language and Montessori Education Today

At Mandarin Ducklings Bilingual Montessori Nursery, we are dedicated to providing a holistic educational experience that combines the benefits of a bilingual environment and the Montessori approach. Our nursery is a place where children develop a love for learning, cultivate a global mind-set, and gain the skills necessary for a successful transition to school and beyond.

If you are seeking a bilingual Montessori nursery that prioritises Mandarin language learning, look no further. Join Mandarin Ducklings and give your child the gift of bilingualism, cultural enrichment, and a strong educational foundation. To learn more about our nursery and enrolment process, visit our website or contact us today.

Benefits Of Fibre For Children

Fibre is an essential component of a healthy diet, and its benefits extend to children as well. Although often overlooked, fibre plays a crucial role in maintaining good overall health and well-being. Including an adequate amount of fibre in a child's diet can have numerous positive effects on their digestive system, weight management, and overall growth and development.

One of the primary benefits of fibre for children is its positive impact on digestion. Fiber adds bulk to the stool, making it easier to pass through the intestines and promoting regular bowel movements. This helps prevent constipation, a common problem among children. By maintaining a healthy digestive system, fibre also reduces the risk of developing digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome and diverticulosis later in life.

Fiber-rich foods also help children feel fuller for longer periods, which can aid in weight management. When kids consume fibre, it absorbs water and swells up, creating a sensation of fullness in the stomach. As a result, children are less likely to overeat or snack on unhealthy foods between meals, reducing the risk of excessive weight gain and obesity. Promoting healthy eating habits from an early age can have long-term benefits for children's overall health and prevent the onset of weight-related issues.

In addition to its impact on digestion and weight management, fibre offers several other benefits for children's health. Consuming an adequate amount of fibre can help regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for children with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition. Fiber slows down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, preventing rapid spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels.

Furthermore, a high-fibre diet can contribute to the prevention of heart disease and certain types of cancer later in life. Fiber-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, are nutrient-dense and contain various vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support a healthy immune system and overall well-being. By encouraging children to consume these fibre-rich foods, parents can lay the foundation for a lifetime of good health.

While it is clear that fibre has numerous benefits for children, it is important to introduce it gradually and ensure they drink enough water to avoid any discomfort. Some excellent sources of fibre for children include fruits like apples, oranges, and berries, vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, and sweet potatoes, and whole grains like brown rice, whole wheat bread, and oats. Parents can also incorporate legumes like beans and lentils into their children's diets for an added fibre boost.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, fibre plays a crucial role in maintaining good health and should be an essential part of a child's diet. From promoting healthy digestion to aiding in weight management and preventing chronic diseases, the benefits of fibre for children are numerous. By introducing fibre-rich foods gradually and encouraging healthy eating habits, parents can set their children on a path to lifelong wellness. So, let's ensure our children receive adequate fibre intake to support their growth, development, and overall well-being. Visit Mandarin Ducklings for more details.