FAQs
What do you do in winter when it’s very cold or wet?
If the children are warm and dry we just keep playing! We stay active to stay warm and we have our two cosy heated yurts if they need a break from outdoor play or to change clothes. It is really important that children come well prepared with quality outdoor clothing suitable for both cold and wet weather, lots of cosy layers and spare clothes are essential. A warm lunch or soup is always a good idea in winter too! Please see our Kit List for essential clothing for winter.
Do you ever close due to weather?
Yes, there are circumstances when we have to close. These days are usually when there are storm warnings, high winds, extreme cold temperatures or the rare event when access to the Haddo Estate is compromised and the estate needs to close. We always do a risk assessment and consider the safety of the children first. This is something you should give careful consideration to when choosing an outdoor setting as the care provider for your child.
Where do the children go to the toilet?
We have a compostable toilet next to the main yurt with hand washing facilities. We also have a nappy changing cubicle with a hand washing sink.
In order that your child feels confident when using the toilet, we ask that you ensure that they (in the 3 – 6 age range) know how to use the toilet independently and can wipe themselves afterwards.
It is your child’s right to feel safe, secure, clean and comfortable when using the toilet. Accidents happen and we will always reassure and comfort your child in order to help re-establish feelings of safety and security. In our recommended Kit List we ask that each child brings at least 1 change of clothing with them each time they attend kindergarten. If your child is wet or soiled, we will always offer help and support while encouraging your child to be as independent as possible in their efforts to change into clean clothing.
Do you have indoor space?
Yes. We have two magical yurts at the heart of the site. They have stoves and are a cosy space for reading, relaxing, having a nap and changing clothes. There are also lots of huts dotted around the site that provide shelter and make great dens!
Do you go ever go off site?
Whilst most days are spent in our woodland playground we regularly take groups of children on walks and adventures. When it’s windy we fly kites, when it’s raining we jump in puddles, when it’s snowing we go sledging and when it’s sunny we go for picnics in the park. The adventures are endless!
What do the children eat?
Parents/carers are required to provide all snacks and lunch for their children. When playing and exploring outdoors we find that children have hearty appetites so plenty of food and water is required. We aim to keep the content of lunch bags as free from plastic waste as possible. Any wrappers or packaging will be returned home in the packed lunch box for you to recycle/dispose of at home. We also ask that your child’s drinks bottle contains either milk or water and no carbonated or sugary drinks and that your child’s food is nutritious with no sugary snacks, sweets or chocolate.
In winter we recommend soup/hot food in a flask as part of your child’s lunch. In summer we recommend using an insulated lunch bag with ice packs to keep food cool.
From time to time we cook on the open campfire, stovies for Burn’s Day and pumpkin soup at Halloween have been particular favourites.
What should the children wear?
We have a recommended Kit List which you can find here.
Can I visit?
Of course! We extend a warm welcome to all parents and carers curious about Haddo Woodland Kindergarten. Please complete our contact form to arrange a visit.