Drumkeen Community Childcare

01/09/2026

29/08/2026

We look forward to welcoming everyone back on Monday, August 31st as the new preschool year begins! 😊

14/08/2026

What if we stopped asking, “Are they settled yet?” 👀

As September approaches, many nurseries, preschools and childminders are preparing to welcome new children.

New rooms.
New resources.
New routines.
New learning opportunities.

But there is one thing I think we sometimes forget…

What does September feel like from the child's perspective?

They aren't thinking about learning goals.

They aren't worrying about whether they've joined the activity.

They're wondering:

❤️ Am I safe?
❤️ Can I trust these adults?
❤️ Will my grown-up come back?
❤️ Do I belong here?

And that's why I believe belonging comes before learning.

A child who cries at drop-off isn't necessarily a "poor settler".

A child who stands quietly watching isn't necessarily lacking confidence.

They may simply need time, relationships and reassurance.

Settling isn't about how quickly a child stops crying.

It's about how successfully we help them feel known, valued and cared for.

Because when a child knows:

"The adults here know me."
"They understand me."
"They care about me."
"I belong here."

Something changes.

Confidence grows. Curiosity grows. Learning follows. 🌱

I've written more about this — including practical reflections for settings preparing for September.

👇 Read the full blog here:

https://www.earlyinsights.co.uk/post/helping-children-settle-into-nursery-why-belonging-comes-before-learning

What are you doing this September to help every child feel that they belong? ❤️

31/07/2026

🌟 This weekend – Volunteers Needed🌟

If you can spare some time, please come out and help keep our Community Clean, Tidy and Safe.

For more information, please get in touch or call out and join us.