At Monkey Puzzle Loughton, we understand that preparing your child for school is about so much more than ABCs and 123s. In a recent conversation with Katherine, our dedicated nursery manager, she shared how staying within a familiar nursery setting through the preschool years can offer a stable, supportive, and enriching environment for children to grow and thrive. Here’s a closer look at how we support children’s development and get them ready for their next big step: starting school.
A Familiar Foundation with Room to Grow
One of the biggest benefits of keeping your child in our nursery for their preschool years is consistency. Being in a space where they feel secure, nurtured, and understood allows children to flourish at their own pace. With familiar faces and routines, they can build confidence, explore new challenges, and truly enjoy the learning journey.
Supporting Early Reading and Writing – When They’re Ready
Every child develops at their own pace, and at Monkey Puzzle Loughton, we meet them where they are. When it comes to early literacy, we focus on building the foundations first.
We start with mark-making activities to strengthen both fine and gross motor skills, think painting with big brush strokes, drawing in sand, or using chunky crayons. As children progress, we introduce smaller paper and encourage them to hold pencils properly, helping to build control and precision.
Phonics is introduced through playful, sensory experiences like painting letters, drawing in sand, and exploring letter sounds with real-life materials. We also begin early reading by helping children recognise letters, especially those in their own names. Importantly, all of this is based on individual readiness, we never rush, but always support.
Social Skills: Sharing, Taking Turns & Conflict Resolution
Social development is a huge part of our preschool curriculum. Through group activities, games, and collaborative play, children naturally learn how to share, take turns, and work as a team.
We gently guide them to reflect on situations and solve problems independently, skills they’ll need not just in school, but throughout life. Our aim is to nurture thoughtful, confident little learners who can express themselves and listen to others.
Building Independence, Responsibility & Self-Care
Preparing for school also means encouraging independence. At Monkey Puzzle Loughton, children are given lots of opportunities to take responsibility for themselves:
- Choosing their own placemats and cutlery at mealtimes
- Serving their own food
- Learning to dress themselves and manage toilet training
These routines help children feel capable and in control, boosting their confidence and self-esteem.
Getting Ready for School Together
Our strong connections with local schools mean we’re always in the loop with what teachers are looking for. Whether it’s independence, confidence in group settings, or being potty trained, we work closely with schools, and parents, to make sure every child is ready.
School visits to our nursery help ease the transition, allowing children to meet teachers in a familiar setting. It’s all part of our commitment to smooth, happy transitions from nursery to school.
Tracking Progress & Keeping You in the Loop
We believe in open communication with our families. From the moment your child joins us, we work with you to understand their starting point and build a picture of their unique development.
We conduct formal assessments every six months, which are shared via our Famly app. Through the app, parents can:
- See daily updates and photos
- Read observations and developmental milestones
- Access assessment reports
- Contact their child’s key worker whenever needed
This real-time connection keeps you informed, reassured and makes it easy to celebrate every achievement, big or small.
If you’re looking for a nurturing, educational, and supportive environment to see your child through to school, Monkey Puzzle Loughton is here for you every step of the way. We’re proud to provide a preschool experience that lays a strong foundation for a lifelong love of learning.
Want to find out more or book a visit? Get in touch today, we’d love to show you around!
