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0-3 local parent networking
If you are a parent of children 0-3, then this is the area for you. Our services provides:
As early members of our WHC community, we want to support you and your child in enjoying and making the most of of their pre-school years. Have a look below at details of what you can access... |
Guidance on Developing Matters and Associated Activities
Development Matters has been written for all early years practitioners, for childminders and staff in nurseries, nursery schools, and nursery and reception classes in school. It offers a top-level view of how children develop and learn. It guides, but does not replace, professional judgement.
Within this document are examples of activities for children 0-3 that may help you as parents at home if not attending pre-school. For further information and ideas for the younger ages, please also see our guidance sheets below!
Milestones for 0-3 year olds
Below are the milestones for you to refer to (based on CDC recommendations) for the following ages:
2 months
4 months
6 months
9 months
1 year
18 months (1 1/2 years)
2 years
3 years
Online programme
Please see below for our online programme for parents of children 0-3. If you can think of any other sessions that would be useful, please let us know.
Q&A Forum Online
If you have a question about child development or attending nursery for your child ages 0-3, please complete the form below or click on https://bit.ly/3qMf9pr
Are there any useful documents that I can read about child development?
Yes - the 'Birth to Five' book is a valuable publication for all parents of newborns to the time they are in reception.
There is also the 'Pregnancy Book' from the NHS which is also useful.
Why is the 2 year check important?
The Progress Check at Age Two ‘If I was given a report or document written about my son, I would like the report to show that the person who has written it really knows him….. and most importantly show something of his true self’.
It is a legal requirement that parents and carers must be supplied with a short written summary of their child’s development in the three prime areas when their child is aged between 24-36 months.
The aims are to review development, understand needs and plan for support, including actions that address any developmental concerns.
Key principles: The Progress Check should be carried out by a practitioner who knows the child well (normally the key person or childminder), with the parents; based on ongoing observation and assessment of skills, knowledge, behaviour and understanding that is demonstrated consistently and independently by the child; take into account parent’s views and also enable children to contribute actively to the process. The progress check at age two must identify the child’s strengths and any areas where the child’s progress is slower than expected. If there are significant emerging concerns (or identified SEN or disability) practitioners should develop a targeted plan to support the child, involving other professionals.
My child is in nursery. When can I apply for a place at WHC reception?
Online applications for primary (Reception) school usually open November at www.essex.gov.uk/admissions. You will not receive a paper application or a reminder from Essex County Council and it your responsibility to ensure that your child has a confirmed application. Applications can be made any time up to and including the deadline of mid January
If your application is late, it is only considered after all the on time applications. Popular schools generally fill up with the on-time applications and your child risks NOT getting a school place at your chosen school, even if your child has brothers and sisters already attending that school. Applying for only one school does not mean that your child will be offered that school. Please ensure that you use all your school choices.
If you have any further questions or would like some help or advice in completing your application, please contact us.
Pre-school community meetings
Our first 0-3 community meeting will take place in Summer 2020.
Signposting Local Support
Epping & Waltham Abbey Healthy Family Team
The Essex Healthy Family Team in Epping & Waltham Abbey has a dedicated team of professionals holding a range of skills and qualifications to support expectant mothers during pregnancy and after the birth up to the age of 19.
We deliver child and family health services, provide on-going additional services for vulnerable children and families and help other services in safeguarding and protecting children.
The team is made up of health visitors, school nurses, staff nurses and community health workers.
Courses
You can find courses from ACL Family Learning for parents here: