The skills and knowledge my son learned and practised here, like working with the land and food, listening to birdsong and singing songs about the seasons, discovering himself and his love of nature, working and playing as a team with his peers and building on all kinds of social skills – I could go on forever – reach far beyond any measurable target that Ofsted could demand on paper. (Though they do meet those targets brilliantly, incidentally!)
The children here learn real-life skills in such an engaging setting, and in such an organic way that respects each child’s individual needs. For example, the children are encouraged to carry out risk assesments, noting down any dangers they can spot on their clipboards. This activity helps with such a broad range of skills, not to mention the confidence it gives children when they are entrusted with tasks.
The staff respect children at Elves and Fairies. They speak to them as equals, trusting their innate abilities and filling them with confidence to push themselves. They show them so much love and support, helping them to grow into emotionally healthy children with their authoritative, wise and nurturing approach to any problems the child might be having. I have seen how they always try to get to the root of a problem behaviour rather than just trying to stamp it out, something that is really important to me as a parent and that my son benefits from hugely.
As a parent I have also been lucky enough to be welcomed into the community, through their wonderful seasonal celebrations and gatherings and even just through the many reassuring conversations and emotional and practical support I have personally received from the community in my times of need, helping me to be a more connected parent and ultimately benefitting our family.
I really can not speak highly enough of Elves and Fairies. They are so much more than a nursery, or childcare. They are an essential part of our support network and our son learned so much here. I am looking forward to beginning the journey again with his little brother at the toddler group on Fridays, where his love of nature will be nurtured around the most brilliant people.
Steph
Parent
