FAQS
Choosing the right preschool for your child is a big decision, and we know parents often have lots of questions. We've answered some of the questions we are asked most often about our preschools, including preschool sessions, funded childcare, term dates, settling in and getting ready for school.
If you can't find the answer you're looking for, please get in touch with our team. We'd be very happy to help!
Where are your preschools?
Molly's has two preschools in Kent – one in Longfield and one in New Ash Green. Both of our preschools are independent, but based on the grounds of local primary schools, giving us excellent links with the schools, families and wider community. You can find the full addresses and contact details for both of our Longfield and New Ash Green preschools on our Contact page.
How do I apply for a preschool place, and is there a waiting list?
The best way to enquire about a place at Molly's Preschool is to get in touch with us by telephone or email via our Contact page. We'd love to arrange a visit so you and your child can come along, see the preschool in action and get a feel for our setting.
We do operate a waiting list for preschool places, and sessions are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to availability. We recommend getting in touch as early as possible if you are interested in a place!
Is there a minimum number of preschool sessions my child has to attend each week?
No. We understand that every family is different and that childcare needs vary. Subject to availability, we'll work with you to find a session pattern that suits your family and your child's needs.
Is preschool open during the school holidays?
No. Molly's Preschool is term-time only, which means our preschools are closed during school holidays and INSET days.
Our preschool term dates are available on our Parents Information page, where you'll find the most up-to-date information.
Does my child have to stay for a full day?
Not at all. Our preschool day is divided into morning, lunchtime and afternoon sessions, so you can choose the sessions that work best for your family, subject to availability.
Your child can attend for individual sessions or stay for a full day. If your child stays over lunchtime, they'll need to bring a packed lunch.
Can I split my funded childcare hours between Molly's and another childcare provider?
Yes, it can be possible to split your funded childcare hours between two childcare settings. For example, you may choose to use some of your funded hours at Molly's and some at another nursery, preschool or childminder. You don't have to use your full funded entitlement if a different pattern works better for your family.
The exact number of funded hours you can use at Molly's will depend on your child's eligibility, the funding they receive and the sessions available at our setting. If you're considering splitting your funded childcare between providers, please speak to us and we'll be happy to explain how it could work.
Does my child need to be toilet trained before they come to preschool?
Absolutely not! We are very experienced in supporting young children with toilet training, and we understand that every child develops this skill at their own pace.
Please don't worry if your child is still wearing nappies when they start preschool. We'll work together with you to support them when they are ready, using a gentle and positive approach.
What will my child need for a typical day at preschool?
Learning can be a messy business, so we recommend that your child brings a full set of spare clothes, including spare underwear and shoes, in case they get wet or dirty! Depending on the weather, they will need a waterproof coat and wellies, or sun hat and sun cream.
If your child is not yet toilet trained, you will need to provide nappies and wipes. You will also need to provide any medication your child needs (such as asthma pumps). Please remember to label your child's belongings wherever possible – it makes returning lost items much easier!
My child has allergies or intolerances. How can you support them?
We absolutely can support children with allergies and food intolerances, and our team has lots of experience in helping children with individual dietary and medical needs. The safety and wellbeing of your child is our priority. We'll talk to you about your child's allergy or intolerance before they start and make sure that the appropriate information, procedures and support are in place. All of our staff receive Paediatric First Aid training, alongside other regular training throughout the year, so our team is well equipped to respond to children's individual needs.
My child has never been left with anyone before. How will you help them settle into preschool?
It's completely normal for both children and parents to feel a little nervous about starting preschool, particularly if your child has never been away from you before. We take the settling-in process at Molly's gently and at your child's pace. Our experienced practitioners spend time getting to know each child, building a trusting relationship and helping them feel safe, secure and confident in their new surroundings.
Your child's Key Person will play an important role in helping them settle and will get to know their individual personality, interests and needs. We'll also work closely with you, because you know your child best. If you have any worries or concerns about your child's first few sessions, please talk to us. We're here to support you, as well as your child.
What does a typical day at Molly's Preschool involve?
Every day at Molly's is different, but our sessions provide children with a balance of child-led play, adult-supported activities, outdoor learning and opportunities to develop new skills.
Children have the opportunity to explore, investigate, create, imagine and make friends in a safe and nurturing environment. Our practitioners plan activities around children's interests and stages of development, while following the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
Every session at Molly's includes a healthy snack of fruit, veg and carbs and children have access to fresh filtered water throughout the day.
Throughout the year, we offer a wide range of exciting and engaging 'special events' - from visiting the local library, watching ducklings hatch, visits from the Fire Brigade and woodland walks! All children at Molly's receive a rich and varied learning experience.
How will I hear about how my child is getting on at preschool?
Your child will be allocated a Key Person, who will be one of the main adults supporting your child during their time at preschool.
Your Key Person will get to know your child well and will keep you updated about their experiences, development and progress. We also share updates and photos with parents during their time at preschool, helping you feel involved in your child's day even when you're not there.
We value a strong partnership with parents and encourage you to talk to us about anything you'd like to discuss about your child's development or experiences at preschool.
What happens if my child is ill?
If your child is unwell, please keep them at home until they are well enough to return to preschool and follow our illness and exclusion guidance.
Some illnesses require children to remain away from preschool for a set period of time. If you're unsure whether your child should attend, please contact us and we'll be happy to advise you.
Our priority is always the health and wellbeing of all the children and staff at preschool, so we appreciate parents helping us to reduce the spread of illness within our settings.
How will you support my child's school readiness?
School readiness is about so much more than reading, writing and maths. During every session at preschool, we support your child to develop the skills they need to become confident, independent and enthusiastic learners.
Through play and everyday experiences, we help children develop their communication and language, confidence, independence, social skills, emotional wellbeing, physical development, problem-solving and ability to listen and concentrate.
We encourage children to have a go, make choices, develop friendships, manage their feelings and become increasingly independent. These are all important skills for a successful transition to primary school.
Because our preschools have strong links with local primary schools, we understand the importance of helping children make that next step with confidence.
What qualifications do the staff at Molly's Preschool hold?
We have a highly experienced and dedicated team at both of our preschool settings. We have qualified Early Years Teachers at both settings and most members of staff have achieved their Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification. All staff also receive regular Paediatric First Aid training and undertake a range of additional training and professional development throughout the year, including annual Safeguarding training and any specific training undertaken to support our individual pre-schoolers' needs. We are committed to ensuring our team has the knowledge, skills and experience needed to provide high-quality early years education and care in a warm, safe and nurturing environment.
Still have a question?
If you have a question that we haven't answered here, we'd love to hear from you. Whether you're looking for a preschool in Longfield or New Ash Green, have questions about funded childcare, want to understand our term-time preschool sessions, or simply want to arrange a visit, please get in touch with the Molly's team.
We'd love to welcome you and your child to Molly's Preschool.