All the Kindergarten staff recognise the importance of these objects and will all quickly learn to identify which cuddly toy or muslin belongs to whom. Within this context we are mindful that, despite our best efforts, children will leave their precious toys or comforters in strange and difficult to find places, please bear with us if this occurs. Toys Children may want to bring toys to DUCKS; and whilst we do not want to discourage these, we must be practical about what is realistic for children to bring to DUCKS. Handfuls of small toys such as cars, small animals or toy jewellery are likely to become mislaid or lost. It is best that these items are not brought to DUCKS; however, a new or significant toy could be brought to show the class. Dummies The DUCKS has a policy of no dummies other than for sleep. Our philosophy of the Kindergarten strongly supports and encourages communication in its many forms, not least via speech. Research tells us that regular use of a dummy can reduce opportunities for children to babble and join in conversations with others. This may have the effect of hindering speech development. We have also found that when children are using dummies they can disengage from activities in the room, as they tend to focus more on the soothing effect of the dummy rather than becoming involved in the many stimulating activities on offer. Children who are likely to need a sleep may bring their dummy into Kindergarten and these will be kept in individual pots in our Sleep Room. Please be reassured that if your child needs to be comforted whilst settling or for any other reason, their key person will be on hand to offer comfort in other ways than relying on their dummy. This may be in the form of cuddles, distraction, looking at books or engaging them in an activity. Please ask a member of staff if you have any further questions. Toilet Training Before you begin potty training, please discuss this with a member of staff so we can support your child. We have a separate leaflet providing you with guidance and information about potty training.
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