NEWS
SUMMER 2021 ~ NEWSLETTER
Montessori Class Graduation
This year's graduation will take place on Friday 25th June 2021 and Parents are invited to participate via Zoom.
Sports Day
We plan to hold our sports day Friday 18th June 2021. There will be fun galore. More details to follow closer to the date.
ECCE Places
We have very limited spaces for our ECCE rooms for the school year 2021/2022. If you have a child who needs a space and who is not currently booked in, please let me know as soon as possible.
Summer Camps
Teach Leanbh will run a Summer Camp for the month of July for children who are currently registered with the service. The camp will be run over 4 weeks.
Dates for your Calender
June Bank Holiday: Closed Monday 7th June 2021
Montessori: Finished Friday 25th June 2021
Summer Break: Closing Friday 30th July and reopening on Monday 16th August 2021
Barnardos Big Toddle
Teach Leanbh will be participating in the Barnardos big toddle on Friday 4th June 2021. All contributions towards this worthy cause would be greatly appreciated.
New Staff
We would like to welcome Ciara Gilna and Lauren Kelly to the Teach Leanbh Team.
I would like to thank each and everyone of you for all your support and kindness over the past year.
Kind regards
Margaret
SUMMER 2021 ~ NEWSLETTER
Summer is here, come let's have a cheer!
Montessori Class Graduation
This year's graduation will take place on Friday 25th June 2021 and Parents are invited to participate via Zoom.
Sports Day
We plan to hold our sports day Friday 18th June 2021. There will be fun galore. More details to follow closer to the date.
ECCE Places
We have very limited spaces for our ECCE rooms for the school year 2021/2022. If you have a child who needs a space and who is not currently booked in, please let me know as soon as possible.
Summer Camps
Teach Leanbh will run a Summer Camp for the month of July for children who are currently registered with the service. The camp will be run over 4 weeks.
Dates for your Calender
June Bank Holiday: Closed Monday 7th June 2021
Montessori: Finished Friday 25th June 2021
Summer Break: Closing Friday 30th July and reopening on Monday 16th August 2021
Barnardos Big Toddle
Teach Leanbh will be participating in the Barnardos big toddle on Friday 4th June 2021. All contributions towards this worthy cause would be greatly appreciated.
New Staff
We would like to welcome Ciara Gilna and Lauren Kelly to the Teach Leanbh Team.
I would like to thank each and everyone of you for all your support and kindness over the past year.
Kind regards
Margaret
SPRING 2021 Newsletter
Spring is here, lets have a cheer
St. Vincent de Paul
We are delighted to announce that Teach Leanbh raised €500 for the St. Vincent de Paul Christmas Fundraiser. Many thanks to all who donated money to this worthy cause. Our drive in Santa was a wonderful success. A big thank you to Ciara Jones and Laura Connell for all you help. A big thank you also to Gina Honeyman-Connell for her help in making the video for our Christmas Carol Service.
Bookings for ECCE
As the bookings for September are filling up, please advise us on your needs for 2021.
Get Active Programme
We have recently launched our get active programme and the children are loving all the outdoor activities that includes risky play. We would encourage all children who are at home at present to participate in the fun and games. We have received some fantastic videos from children at home. Please keep them coming as their friends and teachers here in the service are really enjoying seeing them.
Linking with Parents
We will continue to support parents and children who are not attending the service during the current covid 19 restrictions by sending daily video's and updates. Please let us know if there is anything further that we can do to help you during this time.
Dates for your Diary (Please note that all dates are subject to change)
Montessori – ECCE Closed 18th and 19th February 2021
St. Patricks Day Teach Leanbh will be closed on Wednesday 17th March 2021
Easter Break ECCE Scheme – Closed from Monday 29th March 2021 and re-opening on Monday 12th March 2021.
Full Day Care – Closed Friday 2nd April and Monday 5th April 2021
Covid 19-
In line with the Government's recent announcement current restrictions are being extended up until 5th March 2021. The Minister has also confirmed that the pre-school (ECCE) programme will continue to be suspended during these extended restrictions. We are looking forward to seeing all the children as soon as restrictions are lifted. Fees for children who are not currently attending the service have been waived. Teach Leanch remains open for children whose parents are essential workers.
Staff
I would like to thank all the staff of Teach Leanbh for their continued hard work in these difficult times. Each day is a new day.
Christmas Newsletter
Santa Letter's displayed from Friday 4th December 2020
Christmas Dinner - Wednesday 9th December 2020
Christmas Carol Service - Available for viewing from 16th December 2020
Drive through Santa - Friday 18th December 2020 from 4pm to 8pm. €10.00 per family. Times will be allocated for families closer to the date.
Acknowledgment to attend christmas dinner
Acknowledgment to attend drive through santa
0-1 Years
Listening;
What to do;
Sing and talk to your child using exaggerated tones of voice. Watch your babies facial expressions and see how they react to different pitches.
Learning benefits;
Language Development
Dancing;
Supplies needed;
Music / Radio /
What to do;
Put one of your favorite songs and while holding your baby move around in time to the music
2-3 Years
Blanket Name Game;
Supplies
● Big sheet/blanket/parachute
Method
Two people hold up a blanket/sheet/parachute.
· Split the group in half.
· With each half on either side of the blanket/sheet/parachute.
· Aim of the game is to get everyone to your side of the parachute.
·Each side nominates a person to stand up.
·When the parachute is lowered the people, who are standing up should try to say the other persons name first.
·The slowest person must go to the other side of the parachute.
They are learning:
· Togetherness and companionship
· Fun
3-5 Years
Summer Scavenger Hunt
Materials:
Scavenger hunt list and basket(google images)
Method:
Go outdoors in this lovely weather and try to find some of the items on the scavenger hunt list.
You can add some items to your basket.
Learning Outcomes: Outdoor play, builds problem solving skills and it also helps your child to identify colours, shapes, textures.
Rainbow art sponge
Materials: Sponges cut into different shapes, paper and paint
Method:
Place some multi coloured paint onto a plate and allow your child design and make a new masterpiece.
Benefits: sensory activity, hand eye coordination and fine motor development.
1-2 Years
Sunflower Art
Supplies
· paper plate
· green card
· PVA glue
Method;
· Paint a paper plate yellow.
· Covering the centre of the plate in PVA glue.
· Cut out black paper into small pieces
· Stick the black pieces into the centre where the glue is.
· Use a green card to cut out the stem and leaves.
· Stick the stems and leaves.
Learning Benefits
• turn taking
• fine and gross motor skills
Activities
1-2 Years
Bubbles Fun Play
Materials need
Basin
Water
Washing up liquid
Plastic bottle any size
Old socks
String
Method
Fill basin with water and washing up liquid
Cut the end out of the plastic bottle
Pull the old sock over the cut end of bottle and tie with string or elastic bands
Dip in to basin and blow out the mixer
You can add paint to colour the mixture if you want
Learning Benefits
Visual tracking skills
Gross motor movements
Fine motor skills
Speech hearing and language development
2-3 Years
Hand puppets
Materials needs
Old sock
Paint
Glue
Glitter
Googly eyes
Old buttons or junk material
Method
Design sock with Googly eyes
Paint or put glitter on
If you want you can glue on old button for eyes or with markers design your own face
Learning benefits
Language development
Imagination
Creativity
3-5 Years
Nature activity
Can u find 3 summer flowers while outside playing or walking. Can you name them? Can you draw them? Show me! Amazing work.
Tá Duine Ag An Doran
There is Someone At The Door
Tá duine ag an doras
There is someone at the door
Bing-Bong! Bing-Bong!
Bing-Bong! Bing-Bong!
Tá duine ag an doras, Bing-bong!
There is Someone at the door, Bing-bong!
Cé atá ansin ar maidin go moch?
Who is there so early in the morning?
"Is mine atá ann" arsa fear an phoist.
"It is me" said the postman
Bing-Bong! Bing-bong! Bing-bong!
Bing-Bong! Bing-bong! Bing-bong!
Tá duine ag an doras
There is someone at the door
Bing-Bong! Bing-Bong!
Bing-Bong! Bing-Bong!
Tá duine ag an doras, Bing-bong!
There is Someone at the door, Bing-bong!
Cé atá ansin ar maidin go moch?
Who is there so early in the morning?
"Is mine atá ann" arsa bean an phoist.
"It is me" said the postwoman
Bing-Bong! Bing-bong! Bing-bong!
Bing-Bong! Bing-bong! Bing-bong!
From 18 months
Colourful Stranger
• Choose three small toys or objects of the same colour and shape – for example, three red blocks. Show them to your child, explaining that they are all the same colour, and ask "What colour are they?"
• Now cover the objects with a cloth and slip extra objects of the same type, size or shape but different colour underneath – for example, a yellow block.
• Have your child remove the cloth, then say "Oh dear, there's a strange one that doesn't belong with the others. Can you find the one that doesn't belong? The one that is not the same as all the rest?"
This activity teaches your child how to classify things according to shape and colour. It is also an excellent way to develop her vocabulary and critical thinking.
From 18 months
Where do these things go?
• Play this game when you are helping your toddler get dressed in the morning, during the day, or at bedtime.
• Give your child a choice. Say, "Here are your socks, I wonder where they go?" Sing to the tune of Do you know the muffin man: "Do these go on your ears or feet, your ears or feet, your ears or feet?" Praise your child for the right answer.
• Ask similar questions, by singing, as you help your child put on each item of clothing.
This singing game ill enhance your toddler's logical thinking skills and boost their vocabulary.
1-2 Years:
Cheerio tower
Supplies: Playdough, raw spaghetti, plate and cheerios
Method: 1. Place the playdough onto the middle of the plate.
2. stick two raw spaghettis into the playdough facing up.
3. place some cheerios on the plate and allow your child pick up the cheerios and place them on the spaghetti.
What they are learning: Fine motor and hand and eye coordination.
Foot animals (eg. ducks, cows, sheep, dogs or hens)
Supplies: Paint, paint brush and paper
Method: 1. Paint your child's foot and place it down on paper and allow dry.
2. Once dry allow your child to add a face to their foot animal weather with paint, stickers or crayons.
What they are learning: Sensory activity, fine motor and pincer grasp.
2-3 Years
Melted Crayon Art :
Supplies;
1. Crayons( any colours)
2. iron
3. parchment and watercolour paper
4. cheese grater
Method;
• decide what crayon combination you want to grate.
• Place your grater over your paper and in a continuous even motion, grate over the entire paper. Make sure to do this as evenly as possible! If not you will create a big blob of crayon in one area.
• Repeat with all the crayon colors you choose.
• Lay one sheet of parchment paper over the watercolour paper carefully as to not make the crayon bits fly everywhere.
• Add your preheated iron over the parchment paper and press firmly in one continuous motion. We had our iron on a medium setting.
• Remove parchment and admire your art.
Learning Benefits;
1. what colours can mix well together .
2. learning patience to do the exercise.
3. learning how to grate.
HandPrint Shadow Shapes (messy play):
Supplies:
• paint
• white paper
Method;
1. paint both hands with paint.
2. Place Hand Prints In The Centre.
3. Turn over the page .
4. Gently pat the paper .
5. Then open up and you have your shape shadow.
Learning Benefits;
• hand eye coordination
• holding hands steady
• painting shapes
• messy play
3-5 Years
Hot Air Balloon
Supplies;
Old CD
Wooden craft sticks
Cardboard
Cut some tissue into small squares
Marker
Glue
Scissors
Method;
Cut a cardboard rectangle for your child (or guide your child using the scissors) this is to use as the balloon basket. Use some glue to glue down some dots on your wood sticks to the back of the CD. Now take your marker to draw lines on your cardboard basket. Finish your CD hot air balloon by adding glue all over your cd(by choice) whilst crumpling up some of the tissue squares and attaching them to the glue to stick.
Dear Parents/Guardians,
These lovely Irish Poems are from our Irish Language Programme. If any parent would like more or need any specific advice or support please email me directly (margaretconnelldaycare@gmail.com) and I will get back to you.
Looking forward to the future and to seeing you all soon.
Kind regards
Margaret.
Tá An Lá Go hÁlainn
It Is a Lovely Day
Tá an Lá go hálainn,
It is a lovely day,
Tá an Lá go hálainn,
It is a lovely day,
Tá an Lá go hálainn,
It is a lovely day,
La La Lala.
La La Lala.
Tá an Lá go hálainn,
It is a lovely day,
Tá an Lá go hálainn,
It is a lovely day,
Tá an Lá go hálainn,
It is a lovely day,
Lala, Lala, Lala.
Lala, Lala, Lala.
Week 24th April 2020
Arts, Crafts and Activities
Ages 0-1 upwards
Easy Moon Sand Recipe
You will need:
1/4 cup baby oil for every 2 cups of flour.
Moon sand is great for sensory learning and is given its name because of its crumbly texture and how similar it looks to the surface of the moon. It can also be moulded when compressed, making it a fabulous for open ended play.
Mix the ingredients well to break up any balls of baby oil that form.
Store in an airtight container when not in use.
Olive oil or coconut oil can be used instead of baby oil if you are concerned your child may ingest the moon sand.
For the coconut oil version, combine 1/3 a cup coconut oil (heated in microwave until liquid) for every 2 cups of flour. The consistency is only slightly different but equally as fun!
Water Play
You will need:
A splash mate (if activity is indoors)
A container such as a baking tray
Warm water
Floating bath toys
Children love to play with water, even babies can have fun with water, and it is another activity that is great for sensory learning. Here your child can grasp, splash and play to their hearts content.
Please ensure to provide constant supervision anytime your child is around water.
1-2 Year Olds
LITTLE DRUMMERS
Materials needed: rattle, spoons, pots and pans, bells, cymbals, drums
What to do:Make music using percussion instruments. "Find fun tunes to play that have a good beat," "Play along with him/ her as well as encouraging him/her to play by herself."
2. PLAYING HOUSE
Materials needed: Large cardboard box or store-bought play tunnel or playhouse
What to do: Create a fort out of a cardboard box, play tunnel, or playhouse. Include an entrance and an exit, and encourage your child to go in and out. (You might need to show him /her at first.) Up the entertainment factor with some pretend play, like knocking on the door or ringing the doorbell, and asking if anyone is home.
2-3 Year Olds
Cloud in a Jar- This activity is good for hand-Eye Coordination and Control, Cause and Effect and Concentration.
What you need- Jar, blue food colouring, shaving cream and water.
Steps-
·Add water to the jar.
·Squirt some shaving cream on top. The thicker the layer of shaving cream the longer it takes for the drops of colour to come through.
·Squeeze drops of blue food colouring on top of the shaving cream.
·Watch carefully as the makes its way through the "cloud" and then drop into the clear water down below.
3 – 5 Year Olds.
Alphabet letters bottle cap centre
Collect bottle caps or milk caps get your parents to write the different letters of the alphabet on them.
Get a sheet of card and write the alphabet out on it.
Make the letters bottle caps to the sheet saying your phonics also.
To make it fun get your parents to make small words cards like, cat, bed, peg, pig, top etc. on coloured paper and help your child make the word also saying the phonics like what we were doing in school
ARTS AND CRAFTS
How to make your own paint at home:
1. Pour white flour, water, and salt in a bowl. Pour 1 cup, or 8 fluid ounces (240 ml), of warm water into a large mixing bowl. Also add 12 ounces (340 g) each of white flour and table salt. Mix the ingredients into a smooth liquid.[1]
·This creates a quick-drying, non-toxic paint safe for children of any age.
·Adjust the amount of each ingredient you use to create more or less paint. Keep the ingredients in the same ratio
2. Divide the paint into separate containers. Distribute the paint evenly among a few small bowls or squeeze bottles. Resalable plastic bags also work well with this kind of paint.[2]
·With a zippered plastic bag, you can cut a corner later to let out a steady drip of paint. This eliminates overturned paint containers and reduces messes
3. Pour 2 drops of food colouring into the paint. Choose a paint colour, then squeeze 2 or 3 drops of food colouring into the paint. Give yourself a colour palette by mixing a different colour into each container. You can add more drops as needed if the paint's colour isn't dark enough.[3]
·If you can't find a specific food colouring, mix drops of other colours. For example, try adding 3 drops of red and 1 drop of blue to make purple
4. Stir the paint to mix in the food colouring. If your paint is in open containers, stir it with a spoon or another utensil. For bottles or bags, close the container and shake or squeeze it. Keep doing this until the paint becomes a consistent colour.[4]
·If you are using resalable bags, leave the bag open slightly so that excess air can escape. Be careful to avoid squeezing the paint out of the opening.
5. Add more water to thin the paint. Paint made using a flour mixture may seem pretty thick at first. To thin the paint, gradually pour more water into the container. Mix the ingredients together until the paint is exactly how you want it.[5]
·Since the paint is non-toxic, you can safely touch it with your fingers as well as pour it from the container.
·This paint tends to be a little thicker than traditional store-bought paints, so it isn't quite as easy to spread.
Tá Mo Lámha Glan
My Hands are Clean
Tá Mo Lámha Glan,
My Hands are Clean
Tá Mo Lámha Glan,
My Hands are Clean
Hé hó mo Dhaidí ó,
He ho my daddy oh,
Tá mo lámha glan.
My hands are clean.
Tá Mo Lámha Glan,
My hands are clean,
Tá Mo Lámha Glan,
My hands are clean,
Hé hó mo Mhamaí ó,
He ho my mammy oh
Tá mo lámha glan.
My hands are clean,
Caithfidh Mé Mo Lámha A Ní
I have to Wash My Hands
Rhyme:
Aon, dó, aon dó trí,
One, two, one two three,
Caithfidh mé mo lámha a ní
I have to wash my hands.
Aon, dó, aon dó trí,
One, two, one two three,
Caithfidh mé mo lámha a ní.
I have to wash my hands
Song:
Aon, dó, aon dó trí,
One, two, one two three,
Caithfidh mé mo lámha a ní
I have to wash my hands.
Aon, dó, aon dó trí,
One, two, one two three,
Nífidh mé mo lámha.
I will wash my hands
8th April 2020
Arts, Crafts and Activites.
0-1 years
1. Discovery basket
Fill clear plastic containers you have around the house with little things that baby can explore. Place a lid on them, tape the lid if need be and let the little one spin them around to explore the contents.
2. Paper towel roll chute
Tape a cardboard paper towel roll to the wall (or a toilet paper roll) and encourage baby to drop cotton balls into it. Watch how quickly they catch on and have fun with this "into-the-chute" game!
1-2 years
1. Make your own "aquarium"- Sensory bags allow children to explore, discover, imagine, create, and learn while engaging many of their senses. They are great mess free sensory play.
What you need- Clean kitchen sponges, resealable plastic bag, water, duct tape, food colouring (not essential), glitter (not essential).
Steps-
·Cut some fish shapes out of clean kitchen sponges.
·Slip them into a resealable plastic bag filled with about a cup of water.
·Not Necessary but you can add a few drops of food colouring into the water and add some glitter.
·Seal the bag and cover the edge with duct tape to be sure it stays closed.
·Let your child squeeze the fish and pat the bag while they are seated in their highchair or on the floor with you.
2.Playdough cupcakes- This activity is good for hand eye coordination and fine motor development. It is also a good example of imaginative play and allows for creative thinking.
What you need- Playdough, cupcake holders, cupcake tray.
Steps-
·Allow your child to place the cupcake holders into the tray.
·Divide the playdough into large and small pieces and then create your own cupcake creations.
If you don't already have playdough at home here is our playdough recipe-
• 4 cups Flour
• 1 cup Salt
• 4 Tablespoons Oil
• 1 1/2 cups Warm Water
Mix together. You may have to add more water to the mix to get the correct consistency. Separate the playdough and add different food colouring to each piece.
Ages: 2-3 year 4 Years plus.
Matching Colour game;
For this activity all you will need is;
• Sheet of Paper
• Any Coloured Marker
• Crayons or Paint
• Scissors
On one piece of paper you will draw 6 circles, Each circle will be painted/coloured in 6 different colours.
You will then cut out 6 of the circles and place them to the side.
On the other piece of paper you will then colour the outline of the circle with the same colours that your child has previously coloured.
Now the fun begins.. let's match our colours!
Eg;
You will now ask your child to put the cut out yellow circle in to the circle on the other sheet, and then the pink circle, blue circle etc.
Learning benefits;
This fun activity will help your children's creative development and also their hand - eye coordination.
Ages: 2-3 year 4 Years plus.
Rainbow Rice;
For this activity all you will need is;
• White Rice
• White vinegar
• Any food coloring
• Food Container
• Towel
• A Tray
Now gather all the coloured rice place it on the tray and leave for 24 hours to dry. Take the towel and place it on top of the rice to absorb the moisture and help the rice dry quickly. Depending on the humidity In the room it may dry in less than 24 hours.
Learning benefits;
The children will love the feel and texture.
Build up of their fine motor skills.
Ages 3-5 upwards
Rainbow pasta threading necklaces
You will need:
Penne or Rigatoni pasta
4 zip-loc bags
Liquid food colouring
Pipe cleaners or string
Separate the pasta into the 4 zip-loc bags.
Add some food colouring to each and shake.
Leave to dry for a day (Empty onto paper towels to allow to fully dry for the last few hours).
When the pasta is dry, thread the pasta onto the pipe cleaners or string to make lots of
bracelets or necklaces. Rather than using the food colouring, your child can paint the pasta if they'd prefer.
Treasure Hunt
The National Botanic Gardens have created a wonderful spring themed treasure hunt for children to explore the outdoors, it can be found on the link below.
http://botanicgardens.ie/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Spring-Nature-Hunt.pdf
No dates have yet been received for the reopening of childcare facilities.
FÉACH AR MO LAMHA
Féach ar mo lámha
A haon, a do,
Ó bhó, bhó!
Féach ar mo lámh
A haon, a do,
Ta siad salach
Ó bhó, bhó.
Three key things we recommend you try and do each day
• Read to your children
• Go outside
• Sit down to family meals together.
For anyone who would like some other ideas we have put together some fun, simple ideas that can be easily completed at home.
6 months to 12 years of age
Allow plenty of floor time encouraging crawling where possible, get into the lovely tummy time position. Get down on the floor with your babies. When on the floor with your baby play games like peek a boo or blow bubbles for them (babies love bubbles)
Encourage cause and effect play such as push-button toys
Build play skills with stacking cups and blocks. Picking them up, dropping them, banging together, building up and knocking down.
During everyday tasks like bath time encourage your baby to splash hands and kick legs, make this a multi-sensory experience with singing rhymes or playing music for your babies. We love Mozart for babies which can be found on utube.
12 months to 18 months
Shoe box fun, fill a show box or any box with items from around your house and let your little one explore it. Sometimes we like to pick a theme for the box e.g. kitchen items and include spoons, plastic cups, etc. Other times we will pick things by colour so a box with all yellow things from around the house.
Water fun, put some warm water in bowl with some fun toys. remember you need to sit with your little one while they play with water.
Build a fort , let your little one creep in and out if it,
Discos dance part, if your little one is walking dance with them, if they aren't walking yet dance with them in your arms. Get the whole family involved.
Play pretend, set up a tea party with your child and their stuffed animals
18 months to 2 years
Play fun games such as hide and seek , ring a ring Rosie, tag
Play catch with football, gently throw to your child and encourage them to reach and catch it
Play pretend and make believe games with figures and animals
Set up sensory bins with rice or pasta and throw in some toys and let your little one explore this
2-3 years
Talkies: encourage your child to talk about what they see, this is a great one for those daily walks or while going for a drive in the car.
The playgrounds are closed but that doesn't mean you can't set up some fun playground ideas by building a obstacle course indoors or in the garden. Include things to go over, under and around.
Have some fun functional play such as jigsaw, puzzles and block building, threading beads ( if you have no beads try some penne pasta and a lace.
Colouring pictures, copying simple shapes like circles and crosses. If you have some chalk bring it outside and get drawing and colouring.
Get baking with your child, rice crispy buns are always popular.
Why not try out our homemade play recipe we make each week with the kids :
• 4 cups Flour
• 1 cup Salt
• 4 Tablespoons Oil
• 1 1/2 cups Warm Water
Mix together. You may have to add more water to the mix to get the correct consistency. Store in lunch box or freezer bag in your fridge and it will last a few days.
4 years plus
Take any of the ideas from the above 2-3 years .
Arts and crafts, why not work on some scissor skills with a children scissors and some magazines or catalogue ( agros catalogue is great for this). Have them pick out preferred items in the magazine and cut them out and stick onto a page.
Watch a nature show with your child, talk to them about the animals where they live and encourage your child to draw pictures of what they saw
Cook with your child, it doesn't have to be something extra difficult, have them pour, stir and spoon.
Play pretend with you child, at this age they should be able to think up small little stories to do with figures and animals, join in their play .
Have your child help with simple household chores setting the table, sorting cutlery , folding and clothes.
Teach Leanbh,
Soran, Ballinalee, Co.Longford
Date: 12/03/2020
RE: COVID-19 (coronavirus) Notice of Closure of our Service [Teach Leanbh]
Dear Parent/Guardian,
Teach Leanbh will remain closed until 19th April 2020. We will update our news feed with any new information we receive regarding closure. Fee's will be waivered. We wish you all the best of health, and miss having you all here, and your lovely laughter.
Following on from our post last week I hope that everyone is keeping well in these challenging times. As outlined to everyone fees are payable for the 2 week period. Discretion will be used on a case by case basis. From 30th March 2020, if the Government decides that we are to remain closed, parent's fees will be waivered until we are re-open. Wishing you a Happy Mothers Day.
As you know, the COVID-19 (coronavirus) situation is unprecedented and as Directed by the Taoiseach today we will close from 6pm this evening. We understand that this may complicate your own working arrangements over the coming weeks but this is a directive from Government and it must be followed. Our service is due to open again on 30th March 2020.
To date, we have put into place Infection Control precautions in our service to ensure that your child is protected from the illness. We have taken the latest information from the HSE and the Health Protection Surveillance Centre and have used it to inform our measures. As a reminder I have included the following information to bear in mind at home over coming weeks.
How is COVID-19 (coronavirus) spread?
COVID-19 (coronavirus) is spread by coming into close contact with someone who has the virus. It can be spread by coughing or sneezing. You could also get it if you touch surfaces that have droplets of the virus on them.
What can be done to prevent infection?
Frequently clean hands by using soap and water. Your children should be supported with this, we recommend washing hands for at least 20 seconds.
Practice good respiratory hygiene i.e. when coughing and sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with flexed elbow or tissue – discard tissue immediately into a closed bin and clean hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
Maintain social distancing i.e. leave at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and other people, particularly those who are coughing, sneezing and have a fever.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth – if you touch your eyes, nose or mouth with your contaminated hands, you can transfer the virus from the surface to yourself.
Avoid eating undercooked or uncooked meat and eggs.
As this is an evolving situation, keeping an eye on the HSE COVID-19 (coronavirus) page and the Health Protection Surveillance Centre COVID-19 (coronavirus) page for up to date information.
The best way for you to ensure that your child is safe is to support effective handwashing practices with your child and ensure they are followed at all times. We have encouraged these practices in Teach Leanbh.
Rest assured, that we are also keeping up to date with the most recent information and guidance from the HSE, the Health Protection Surveillance Centre, the Department of Children and Youth Affairs and Early Childhood Ireland. We will stay in contact with you over the coming weeks as the situation evolves.
Due to the unforseen forced closure of our centre by the Government and to ensure the protection of your childs place, fees are payable as normal. Discretion will be used for families on a case-by-case basis.
Yours Sincerely,
Margaret Connell.
SPRING 2020 Newsletter
Spring is here, lets have a cheer
St. Vincent de Paul
We are delighted to announce that Teach Leanbh raised €367 for the St. Vincent de Paul Christmas Fundraiser. Many thanks to all who donated money to this worthy cause.
Bookings for ECCE
As the bookings for September are filling up, please advise us on your needs for 2020. If we have sufficient numbers we will run an afternoon session.
Available Spaces
There are currently 3 spaces available for children aged 2-3 in our new extension room. A new staff member has been recruited for this room. This room is ideal for children who are starting the ECCE programme in Sept 2020. The National Childcare Scheme is available for all parents and maybe worth while looking into. Please contact me if you are interested in availing of a space.
Siolta – We are continuing with the Siolta Quality Assurance Programme this year. Any contribution from parents/guardians for your childs scrapbook are very welcome.
Dates for your Diary
Montessori – ECCE Closed 20th and 21st February 2020
The centre will be open should you require cover.
St. Patricks Day Teach Leanbh will be closed on Monday 16th March and Tuesday 17th March 2020
Easter Break ECCE Scheme – Closed from Monday 6th April and re-opening on Monday 20th April 2020. Full Day Fees apply during this period for children in Day Care as per our policy. The centre will remain open should you require cover.
Full Day Care – Closed Friday 10th April and Monday 13th April 2020
Easter Camp 2019
We are running our Easter Camp again this year from Tuesday 14th April to Friday 17th April 2020
€70.00 per child
Parent Teacher Meeting
We will be holding our Parent Teacher Meetings for school going children on the 26th and 27th March 2019. We will advise you of times closer to the date.
Anyone who would like to discuss their child's progress please let us know.
Staff Update
⁃ We are sad to announce that Bernie Doherty will be leaving Teach Leanbh on the 31st January 2020 and would like to wish her her every success for the future. A new staff member has been secured to take over Bernie's position. To smooth this transition please feel free to talk to me at any time.
⁃ I am happy to announce that Ciara Jones has been promoted to the position of Team Leader and we wish her well in her new role.
Big Start Campaign
A national day of protest for early years services and staff will be taking place on Wednesday, February 5, 2020. While I am very much in support of this protest and will contribute in any way I can, Teach Leanbh will not be closing on this day.
Winter Newsletter
Dates for your Diary
The Traditional Christmas dinner will take place on Friday 13th December 2019. All children are welcome.
Our Christmas Carol Service will take place on Friday 20th December 2019. Further details will be provided closer to the date.
Santa will be visiting Teach Leanbh from 3pm on Friday 20th December 2019. Please book your time to avoid disappointment.
Christmas Holidays
ECCE – Finishing up Friday 20th December 2019
Re Opening – Monday 6th January 2020
Full Day Care – Closing 1pm on Tuesday 24th December 2019
Re Opening Thurday 2nd January 2020
*Please note that children attending Full Day Care, Part Time Care, Sessional or Afterschool are liable to pay the holiday fess as per our policies and proceedures.*
New Staff
We would like to welcome Carol Vesey, Ciara Finnegan and Una Mc Hugh to the Teach Leanbh Team.
Staff Training
Margaret is currrently completing the Hanen Teacher Talk Training Series for Early Childhood Educators/Teachers. The course aims to create rich and stimulating language-learning environments for young children.
Laura is completing a LINC Programme – The Leadership for Inclusion in the Early Years programme, LINC, is a Level 6 Special Purpose Award (Higher Education), that is designed to support the inclusion of children with additional needs in the early years.
All new childcare staff have completed their FAR first aid training.
Other News
The Childline Breakfast Morning took place on Wednesday 23rd October 2019 and we raised €100 towards this worthy cause.
Teach Leanbh have been chosen by the Department of Education and Skills to participate in the Content and Language Integrated Language (CLIL) Project. The project is aimed at improving learner competance and confidence in the Irish Language. We are all very excited to be involved in this project.
As always, please feel free to talk to me at any stage.
Kind regards
Margaret Connell
AUTUMN NEWSLETTER
Light Breeze
Colourful Leaves
Bare Trees
It must be Autumn
Childline Breakfast Morning -
The Childline Breakfast morning will take place on Wednesday the 23rd October 2019. Please call into the office if you would like to make a donation. This is a very worthy cause and your support would be greatly appreciated.
Entrance Gate –
A new press button system has been set up on the red entrance gate into the centre. Please ensure to press the white button before pushing open the gate.
Car Park –
The Car Park has recently been marked out and we hope this will make parking while dropping your children into the centre easier. Please be mindful of other users.
The National Childcare Scheme –
This new scheme will open in October and replace all previous targeted childcare programmes. The National Childcare Scheme will support families with children aged between 24 weeks and 15 years who are attending any participating Tusla registered childcare service. There are two types of supports available under the Scheme: a Universal subsidy and an Income Assessed subsidy. Applications for the National Childcare Scheme can be made online at www.ncs.gov.ie/apply using your verified MyGovID. A paper-based application can also be submitted by post. The Scheme is targeted to open to applications in October 2019, with the first payments flowing from November 2019. To make the transition as smooth as possible, families can choose to make the switch to the new Scheme immediately in October or remain on their current programme for one final programme year.
Dates for your diary –
ECCE Midterm break
28th October 2019 to 1st November 2019 inclusive
Full Time Care is available.
Christmas Break
Full Day Care: Closing Tueday 24th December 2019 at 1pm.
Re-opening Thursday 2nd January 2020
ECCE: Closing Friday 20th December 2019
Re Opening Monday 6th January 2020
** Please note that full fees are payable as per policy **
SUMMER 2019 ~ NEWSLETTER
Summer is here, come let's have a cheer!
Extension Room
Our new room has now opened and we are proud to have triplets as our first customers. Welcome to Molly, Eoin and Ethan.
New Staff
We would like to welcome Niamh Brady who has joined the team as a relief worker.
Pyjama Day
Our Pyjama Day which took place on May 10th raised €256.00 . Thank you to everyone who donated.
Montessori Class Graduation
This year's graduation will take place on Friday 21st June at 1pm. Full details will follow.
Montessori Class Tour
We would like to organise a bus tour and picnic on Friday 14th June. This trip will require parental involvement. If a parent would like to give their support please let me know as soon as possible.
Teach Leanbh Sports Day
Our sports day will take place on Friday 7th June. This is a great day of fun and games for the children.
Summer Camps
Teach Leanbh will be running our summer camps as usual this year, details as follows:
Week 1 1st July to 5th July 2019
Week 2 8th July to 12th July 2019
Week 3 15th July to 19th July 2019
Week 4 22nd July to 26th July 2019
Time: 10am to 1pm
Ages: 2½yrs upwards
Price: €70 per week or €250 for the four weeks (Payable in advance). Enrolment in office.
This is an ideal opportunity for children coming into the Montessori class in September or children moving to the 2nd year of ECCE Montessori.
Dates for your Calender
June Bank Holiday: Closed Monday 3rd June 2019
Montessori: Finishes Friday 21st June 2019
Summer Break: Closing Friday 9th August 2019 & re-opening Monday 26th August 2019
The National Childcare Scheme –
From October 1st the national childcare scheme will replace all previous targeted childcare programmes. Please note that the ECCE programme will not be affected. It is important that all parents register for this scheme as soon as possible. To access the National Childcare Scheme and to find out more information with regard to support available to families please visit www.ncs.gov.ie
Any other business
As always if you have any areas of concern please feel free to discuss with me.
Slán
Margaret Connell May 2019
Newsletter – Spring 2018
Spring Is In Our Step
St. Vincent de Paul
We are delighted to announce that Teach Leanbh raised €350.00 for the St. Vincent de Paul Christmas Fundraiser. Many thanks to all who donated money to this worthy cause.
Staff Update
Caroline Mee Reilly has joined our team as relief worker and Shauna Finn has joined the team as a Childcare Assistant supporting Bernie in the pre-montessori room.
Bookings for ECCE
As the bookings for September are filling up, please advise us on your needs for 2019. If we have sufficient numbers we will run an afternoon session.
Dates for your Diary
Montessori – ECCE Closed 21st and 22nd February 2019 –
The centre will be open should you require cover.
St. Patricks Day Closed Monday 18th March 2019
Easter Break ECCE Scheme – Closed from Monday 15th April and re-opening on Monday 29th April 2019. Full Day Fees apply during this period for children in Day Care as per our policy. The centre will remain open should you require cover.
Summer Holidays ECCE Scheme – Children will be finishing up for the summer break on Friday 21st June 2019.
Teach Leanbh will be closing for the summber break from the 12th August 2019 to 23rd August 2019 inclusive.
Easter Camp 2019
We are running our Easter Camp again this year from Tuesday 23rd April to Friday 26th April 2019
Affordable Childcare:
Please see link with regard to affordable childcare for all parents. The new Affordable Childcare Scheme is launching in October 2019. Both Schemes will run together for the first year.
https://www.affordablechildcare.ie
Parent Teacher Meeting
We will be holding our Parent Teacher Meetings for school going children on March 21st and March 22nd 2019 from 4pm to 6pm.
Anyone who would like to discuss their child's progress please let us know.
Wishing all of our customers a very happy and peaceful Christmas
Thank you for your support in 2018. It is very much appreciated. A special thanks also to the staff of Teach Leanbh for their great work during 2018.
Our new building is now complete. Thank you to Colm and Fox Bros ltd for all their hard work over the past few months.
Many thanks to Minister Zappone for approving the capital grant which has supported the development of the centre.
AUTUMN NEWSLETTER
Light Breeze
Colourful Leaves
Bare Trees
It must be Autumn
Welcome back to all our children, and especially to our new customers and bon voyage to all our children moving on to big school.
The Cheerios Childline Breakfast will take place on the 19th October 2018. Please call into the office if you would like to make a donation. This is a very worthy cause and your support would be greatly appreciated.
The Triple P – Positive Parenting Programme. Margaret has recently completed the Triple P.
Triple P gives parents simple and practical strategies to help them build strong, healthy relationships, confidently manage their childrens behaviour and prevent problems developing. Should you wish to obtain any further information with regard to this training please go to www.triplep-parenting.net
New Staff – We would like to welcome Deirdre Tynan to the Teach Leanbh Team. Deirdre has received her level 8 qualification in Childcare and will act as a float for all rooms.
New Build – Ground has been broken for our new room here at Teach Leanbh. Fox Bros have been awarded the contract. We hope to complete the build by Christmas.
Halloween Party - We will be holding a fancy dress Halloween party on Friday 26th October 2018. There will be prizes galore.
Dates for your diary –
Midterm break
29th October to 2nd November 2018 inclusive
Full Time Care is available.
Christmas Break
Full Day Care: Closing Friday 21st December 2018 , re-opening Monday 31st December 2019
Closing Tuesday 1st January 2019, re-opening Wednesday 2nd January 2019
ECCE: Closing Friday 21st December 2018
Re Opening Monday 7th January 2019
Policies and Procedures 2018
Our Policies and Procedures are password protected. The password is the entry password into the Teach Leanbh building. If you do not know this, please contact our office with your name and your child's name that is attending Teach Leanbh.
Summer Camps 2018
Week 1 2nd July to 6th July
Week 2 9th July to 13th July
Week 3 16th July to 20th July
Week 4 23rd July to 27th July
Time: 10am to 1pm
Ages: 2½yrs upwards
Price: €70 per week or €250 for the four weeks
Payable in advance
SUMMER 2018 ~ NEWSLETTER
Summer is here, come let's have a cheer!
Over the coming weeks as we fulfil our obligations the following policies will be updated. All new policies will be available to view later in the month and all policies will require parental signature.
Policy 4 - Confidentiality/Data Protection Policy – which will incorporate policy 27 – policy on the use of CCTV Recording.
Policy 13 - Child Protection
Policy 7A – Intimate and Personal Care
Policy 7D – Handwashing/Noseblowing
Policy 5 - Access and Inclusion – which will incorporate Equal Opportunities and Community Links (policy 5 ) and Special Needs (Policy 5A)
Policy 24 - Multi Media – Which will incorporate Television and Video (policy 19) IT (policy 24) and Camera and Photograph (policy 24A)
Professional Development
Tara Lennon is continuing her course in Access and Inclusion – this is a new AIM support course for access and inclusion in pre school services.
Laura Connell has recently completed a course in Equality and Diversity.
All staff recently took part in fire safety training and First Aid Refresher course.
Staff also completed a one day course in child protection and awareness.
Pyjama Day
Our Pyjama Day which took place in March raised €158 . Thank you to everyone.
Montessori Class Graduation
This year's graduation will take place on Friday 22nd June at 1pm. Full details will follow.
ECCE Places – For September
Both morning sessions are now full. If we have over 8 places we will also run an evening session.
Full Day Care
At present all full time places are allocated and we have a waiting list in place.
Summer Camps
Teach Leanbh will be running our summer camps as usual this year, details as follows:
Week 1 2nd July to 6th July
Week 2 9th July to 13th July
Week 3 16th July to 20th July
Week 4 23rd July to 27th July
Time: 10am to 1pm
Ages: 2½yrs upwards
Price: €70 per week or €250 for the four weeks (Payable in advance). Enrolment in office.
This is an ideal opportunity for children coming into the Montessori class in September or children moving to the 2nd year of ECCE Montessori.
Dates for your Calender
June Bank Holiday: Closed Monday 4th June 2018
Montessori: Finished Friday 22nd June 2018
Summer Break: Closing Friday 3rd August 2018 & re-opening Monday 20th August 2018
Any other business
As always if you have any areas of concern please feel free to discuss with me.
Slán
Margaret Connell May 2018
Fun Galore
Weather Warning Update- Creché will be closed Friday, 02nd March 2018
Due to the ongoing decline in weather conditions Teach Leanbh will be closed Friday, 02nd March 2018. Please continue to check our website "News" for updates. We would ask all families to stay safe and we look forward to seeing you soon.
Weather Warning Update- Creché will be closed Thursday, 01st March 2018
Due to the ongoing decline in weather conditions Teach Leanbh will be closed tomorrow, Thursday, 01st March 2018. Please check our website "News" for an update on Friday's opening. Please note, if weather continues to decline through tomorrow, Teach Leanbh will not re-open until Monday, 05th March 2018. We would ask all families to stay safe and we look forward to seeing you soon.
Weather Warning - Possible Closure
We would like to advise that should the current weather conditions in the Longford area change to Status Red, Teach Leanbh will for the saftey of everyone be closing. Any changes with regard to this will be updated on our website immediately. We would appreciate it if you could keep a regular eye on the website for updates. Should you have any questions, please do not hesiate to contact us.
Newsletter – Spring 2018
People are hot, People are cool
Somtimes I'm Bright, Sometimes a Fool
Smart Start
Many thanks to all who took part and once again we would like to raise awareness of well being and resilience in our children. We are having a smart start feel good week from Monday 5th February to Friday 9th February 2018. We will be focusing on what makes us happy, who makes us happy and where we are that makes us happy.
On Going Professional Development
Tara Lennon is at present completing an access and inclusion Co-ordination course. All staff have recently completed a Child Protection Awareness course which has given an greater insight to the current changes in Children First.
We are currently updating our Policies and Proceedures handbook. The new updates include Child Protection and Intimate Care Policies. The updated version will be available to view on our website in the coming weeks. They will be password portected. As such, in order to view our Policies & Procedures, online, you must contact our office for password information. ph. 043 33 23278
Staff Update
Samantha Mc Goey is on sick leave at present and Catherine Duffy is taking over her duties until her return.
St. Vincent de Paul
We are delighted to announce that Teach Leanbh raised €500.00 for the St. Vincent de Paul Christmas Fundraiser. Many thanks to all who donated money to this worthy cause.
Also, many thanks to all for the beautiful gifts received over the Christmas period.
National Pyjama Day
We will be hosting an Early Childhood Ireland National Pyjama Day on Friday 2nd March 2018. So make sure you have your PJ's ready for another fun day where we will help to raise funds for Children's Charities.
Bookings for ECCE
As the bookings for September are filling up, please advise us on your needs for 2018.
Dates for your Diary
Montessori – ECCE Closed 22nd and 23rd February 2018
St. Patricks Day Closed Monday 19th March 2018
Easter Break ECCE Scheme – Closed from Monday 26th March re-opening Monday 9th April
2018. Full Day Fees apply during this period for children in Day Care as per
policy
Summer Holidays 6th August 2018 re-opening Monday 20th August 2017.
Ear To the Ground Recording Thursday 1st March 2018
Easter Camp 2018
We are running our Easter Camp again this year from Tuesday 3rd April to Friday 6th April 2018.
Winter Newsletter 2017
Smart Start
We are delighted to announce our results for the recent quality award for Smart Start scoring 98%.
Christmas Dinner
Our Christmas Dinner will take place on Friday 15th December 2017.
Santa Visit
Plan's for santa's visit are underway and details will be provided closer to the date.
Carol Service
Our carol service will be held on Wednesday 20th December at 12.30. Refreshments will be served afterwards.
Christmas Closing Dates
Full Day Care: Closing Friday 22nd December 2017
Re Opening Tuesday 2nd January 2018
ECCE: Closing Wednesday 20th December 2017
Re Opening Monday 8th January 2018
Parent Questionaire Evaluation
The feedback from the parent evaluation was indeed very positive. Our goal is to implement block texting in 2018.
News Flash - Weather Warning
Monday, 16th October 2017 - Re-opening after Red Weather Warning
Teach Leanbh will re-open Tuesday
17th October 2017. We hope all staff and families were safe during the bad weather and we look forward to seeing you all tomorrow.
Sunday, 15th October 2017 - Red Weather Warning
Teach Leanbh will be closed tomorrow Monday, 16th October 2017. This has been advised by the Department of Education regarding the red weather warning. Please check our homepage for updates regarding Tuesday, 17th October 2017.
Health Notice
We have been made aware of the following in the area:
Hand, Foot and Mouth
Ecoli
Autumn 2017 Newsletter
We need time to dream,
Time to remember,
Time to reach the infinite,
Time to be.
Welcome back to all our children, and especially to our new customers and bon voyage to all our children moving on to big school.
Smart Start
As you are aware our centre participated in the healthy Ireland smart start programme. We are delighted to have received accreditation for same. Well done to all involved.
Tulsa Inspection
Our annual inspection took place on the 02/08/2017. We are pleased to be found in full compliance in all areas. A copy of same will be posted in the hallway and uploaded on our web page.
Universal Subsidy CCSU New Contracts
This childcare subsidy is available to all children from 6 months to the first eligible point of entry to the ECCE programme. The maximum
weekly universal childcare subsidy is €20 according to session type. Different rates apply.
Full Time 5 hours plus €20.00
Part Time 3.31hrs to 5 hrs €10.00
Sessional 2.16hrs to 3.30 hrs €7.00
Half session 1.15hrs to 2.15hrs
Required documents:
Childs and Parent PPS No
Date of Birth
Date of Diary
Bank holiday 30/10/2017 – ECCE week 30
As per our policy the review of our price list takes place annually. New price list enclosed.
SUMMER 2017 ~ NEWSLETTER
Summer is here, come let's have a cheer!
Coffee Morning
We are hosting a coffee morning for the Smart Start program on Friday 2nd June 2017.
Sports Day
We plan to hold our sports day on Friday 16th June. There will be fun galore. More details later.
Montessori Class Graduation
This year's graduation will take place on Friday 23rd June at 12.00noon. Details later.
ECCE Places
As numbers are filling up please ensure that you book your child's place.
ECCE transfer to CCSP
Children on ECCE are eligible to transfer to CCSP for the summer if you have the eligible criteria.
Summer Camps
Teach Leanbh will be running our summer camps as usual this year details as follows:
Week 1 3rd July to 7th July
Week 2 10th July to 14th July
Week 3 17th July to 21st July
Week 4 24th July to 28th July
Time: 10am to 1pm
Ages: 2½yrs upwards
Price: €60 per week or €200 for the four weeks (Payable in advance). Enrolment in office.
This is an ideal opportunity for children coming into the Montessori class in September
Dates for your Calender
June Bank Holiday: Closed Monday 5th June 2017
Montessori: Finished Thursday 22nd June 2017
Summer Break: Closing Friday 4th August 2017 & re-opening Monday 21st August 2017
Any other business
As always if you have any areas of concern please feel free to discuss with me.
Slán
Margaret Connell
May 2017
NEWSLETTER ~ SPRING 2017
This is the way we wash our hands
This is the way we wash our hands,
Wash our hands, wash our hands.
This is the way we wash our hands
So early in the morning.
Smart Start
Many thanks to the parents of pre-school children for filling in their questionnaire.
What is Health Promotion and what are we trying to achieve?
Healthy Ireland Smart Start is the result of over a decade of collaborative work led by the Health Service Executive Department of Health Promotion and Improvement to ensure children in pre-school setting are supported to adopt healthy lifestyle behaviour in early childhood. The programme reflects the aim of the Healthy Ireland framework to bring all people together into a national movement with a single aim to ensure the best possible health and well being of our nation's children.
Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion (who 1986)
Pyjama Day
We will be hosting an Early Childhood Ireland National Pyjama Day on Friday 3rd March 2017. So make sure you have your PJ's ready for another fun day were we will help to raise funds for Children's Charities.
Bookings for ECCE
As the bookings for September are filling up, please advise us on your needs for 2017. Preference is given to children already attending and their siblings.
Easter Camp 2017
We are running our Easter Camp again this year details as follows:
Dates: Tuesday 18th April to Friday 21st April 2017
Time: 10.00a.m. to 1p.m.
Price: €60
Programme Includes: Indoor and Outdoor Activities, Treasure Hunt, Creative Play, Cooking, Arts & Crafts, Disco, Fancy Dress
Please ensure to book your child's place if you wish them to attend.
FUN GALORE
Call For Tender
We would like to invite any interested parties to tender for building works to be carried out at our premises Teach Leanbh, Soran, Ballinalee, Co. Longford . A fixed price for woks will need to be submitte,d by any potential contractor and all relevant documention for your business must be provided. Please visit our "Contact Us" page on this website for our contact information.
Dates for your diary
Montessori – ECCE Closed Friday 17th February 2017
St Patrick Day Closed Bank Holiday Friday 17th March 2017
Easter Break ECCE Scheme - Free pre-school
Closed from Monday 10th April to Friday 21st April 2017 both dates inclusive.
(This is not covered under the scheme as per calender).
Full Day fees apply during this period for children in Day Care as per policy.
Margaret February 2017
AUTUMN 2016 ~ NEWSLETTER
We need time to dream,
time to remember,
and time to reach the infinite.
Time to be
Smart Start
Our centre is participating in the Healthy Ireland "Smart Start" Health Promotion
Programme for Pre-School Services. This is jointly run by National Childhood Network and Tusla, promoting healthy eating in Pre-School children.
Cheerios Childline Breakfast
We will be holding our Cheerios Childline Breakfast on Friday 21 st October. This is a fun fundraiser which raises funds to help support the ISPCC Childline services.
Halloween Party
We will be holding a fancy dress Halloween party on Friday 28 rd October. There will beprizes galore.
Healthy Eating
Thank you for your support with our Healthy Eating incentive e.g. of a healthy lunch – sandwich ham/cheese/chicken salad, piece of fruit water/milk.
Dept of Education Inspection
A copy of our Department of Education Inspection Report will be available on our website in the next 10 days.
Points to Note
P
lease be mindful of footwear as small children can be at risk from harmful bacteria.
Please keep the Red Gate closed after use.
Staff
We bid farewell to two members of staff Fidelma Gorman who is spending time with her
family and Sinead Benison who has moved closer to home, we wish them well in the future.
We welcome Georgina Cooper to our staff as childcare assistant and Laura Connell has been appointed Joint Named Person in Charge with Gina Honeyman-Connell.
Early Years Grant
We are delighted to be a recipient of an Early Years Grant from the Department of Children & Youth Affairs and Pobal. With our new building, we are in a position to provide 3 number ECCE Free Pre School sessions.
Dates for your Calender
Full Day Care
October Bank Holiday Closed Monday 31 st October 2016
ECCE Mid-term Closed Monday 31 st October 2016 to Friday 4 th November 2016 (inclusive) and re-start Monday 7 th November 2016
ECCE Closed as per calender, service will be open and normal fees apply
Slán
Margaret Connell
October 2016
SUMMER 2016
CCSP Information
CCSP is up and operational. Please ask if you need any assistance with this scheme.
Pyjama Day
Our Pyjama Day raised just over €200 which has been donated to Irish Autism Action.
Staff Changes
Tara Lennon had returned to Teach Leanbh as a team member.
Department of Education Inspection
We had our Department of Education inspection on Thursday 12th May 2016.
The four areas of assessment are:
1. Quality of context to support children's learning and development
2. Quality of process to support children's learning and development
3. Quality of children's learning experiences and achievements
4. Quality of management and leadership for learning
We received excellent results in all areas scoring 5 out of 5 in each area.
Parent/Teacher Meeting
Parent/teacher meetings for children going to school this year.
Thursday 2nd June 2016 from 3pm to 6pm
Friday 3rd June 2016 from 3pm to 6pm
10 minutes per parent. If you require extra time please advise Manager
Sports Day
We hope to hold our sports day possibly on Friday, 10th June 2016.
There will be fun galore.
More details later.
Montessori Class Graduation
This years graduation will take place on Thursday, 30th June 2016 at 12.00p.m.
Details later.
Summer Camps
Teach Leanbh will be running our summer camps as usual this year details as follows:
Week 1 4th July to 8th July
Week 2 11th July to 15th July
Week 3 18th July to 22th July
Week 4 25th July to 29th July
Time: 10am to 1pm
Ages: 2½yrs upwards
Price: €60 per week or €200 for the four weeks (Payable in advance).
Enrollment in office.
This is an ideal opportunity for children coming into the Montessori class in September.
Dates for your Calender
June Bank Holiday: Closed Monday 6th June 2016
Montessori: Finished Thursday 30th June 2016
Summer Break: Closing Friday 29 th July 2016 & re-opening Monday 15 th August 2016
Any other business
As always if you have any areas of concern please feel free to discuss with me.
Margaret Connell May 2016
Spring 2016 Newsletter
Spring is here
Let’s play and cheer!
To find joy in little things; a flower, a song, a butterfly, a little hand.
Farm Safety
A big word of congratulations to all the children involved in the Farm Safety project. Special thanks to parents Irene Brady, Charlie Reilly, Paul Treacy for the involvement in this project.
Pyjama Day
Friday, 04th March 2016.
Please wear your Pj’s and support a great cause, Autism. Prizes galore and a big party.
Call For Tender
We would like to invite any interested parties to tender for building works to be carried out at our premises Teach Leanbh, Soran, Ballinalee, Co. Longford. Work includes the construction of a new ECCE Free Pre School Room. A fixed price for woks will need to be submitte,d by any potential contractor and all relevant documention for your business must be provided. Please visit our "Contact Us" page on this website for our contact information.
Dates for your Diary
(see calendar) ECCE from 16th March to reopen 04th April.
Full Daycare Closed 17th Bank Holiday Easter Friday 25th March, Easter Monday 28th March
Our Outdoor Video can be viewed on Longford County Childcare Website.
Booking for September 2016 are very high this year. Our mor ning ECCE sessions are full and are running an evening session 2.00p.m. to 5.00p.m. to support numbers.
Staff Changed
We wish Tara Lennon well in the future and welcome Ciara Jones and Laura McNally.
Christmas Newsletter 2015
Aistear in Action
We have just received our certificate, for completing our Aistear in Action Programme, with The Early Years.
Department of Education
The Department of Education, is responsible for compliance checks on ECCE rooms. They are at present delivering pilot inspections. We have lodged our expression of interest to ensure our standard of practice is meeting the children's needs.
Christmas Dinner
Traditional Christmas dinner will be served 11th December 2015.
We are delighted to announce that Santa will be our special guest in attendance.
Enrollment for 2016
Due to the increase in new age brackets, for the ECCE Free Pre School Programme for 2016, there is a huge increase in numbers. If you wish to avail of the morning session, please let us know and we will enrol you for same.
Christmas Carol Service
We will be holding our Christmas Carol Service Friday 18th December at 12.00p.m. at Teach Leanbh. As space is limited, we would ask that only 2 people per child attend.
Refreshments afterwards.
Christmas Carol Service on Shannonside Radio Station
We have been provisionally invited to sing on Shannonside. Details to follow at a later date.
Dates For Your Diary
ECCE Free Pre School – Finished 18th December 2015 / Re-open 11th January 2016
Full Day Care – Closing From 23rd December 2015
Re-open 30th & 31st December 2015
Closed 01st January 2016 / Re-open 04th January 2016
I would like to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Best wishes from Margaret and all the staff at Teach Leanbh.
Slan
Margaret Connell
AUTUMN 2015 NEWSLETTER
We need time to dream,
time to remember,
and time to reach the infinite.
Time to be
Aistear in Action
Ongoing mentoring with Early Years specialist is in its final stages. We wish to thank everyone involved, especially the children for their participation.
Halloween Party
We will be holding a fancy dress Halloween party on Friday 23rd October. There will be prizes galore.
Healthy Eating
Thank you for your support with our Healthy Eating incentive e.g. of a healthy lunch – sandwich ham/cheese/chicken salad, piece of fruit water/milk.
Points to Note
Please be mindful of footwear as small children can be at risk from harmful bacteria.
Please keep the Red Gate closed after use.
Dates for your Calender
Full Day Care - October Bank Holiday Closed Monday 26th October 2015
ECCE
- Mid-term Closed Monday 26th October 2015 to Friday 30th October 2015 (inclusive) and re-start Monday 2nd November 2015
ECCE Closed as per calender, service will be open and normal fees apply
Slán
Margaret Connell
SUMMER 2015 ~ NEWSLETTER
Summer is here, come let's have a cheer!
Aistear in Action
Work is ongoing with the Aistear in Action, we are happy with the level of participation.
Montessori Class Graduation
This year's graduation will take place on Wednesday 24th June at 12.00p.m. Details later.
Tusla Inspection
We recently had our Tusla annual inspection. The inspection team were very happy with our compliance level and the service of delivery. The report will be posted in the hallway on receipt of same.
Parent/Teacher Meeting
Parent/teacher meeting for children going to school this year.
Montessori 1 – Margaret
Thursday 11th & Friday 12th June 2015 from 3p.m. to 6p.m.
Thursday 11th June – A to K
Friday 12th June – L to Z
10 minutes per parent. If you require extra time please advise Manager.
Montessori 2 – Bernie
Friday 12th June 2015 from 10.30a.m.- 12p.m.
Montessori 3 - Evening
Friday 15th June 2015 from 5p.m. to 6p.m.
Summer Camps
Teach Leanbh will be running our summer camps as usual this year details as follows:
Week 1 - 6th July to 10th July
Week 2 - 13th July to 17th July
Week 3 - 20th July to 24th July
Week 4 - 27th July to 31st July
Time: 10a.m. to 1p.m.
Ages: 2½yrs upwards
Price: €50 per week or €200 for the four weeks (Payable in advance). Enrollment in office.
This is an ideal opportunity for children coming into the Montessori class in September.
School Starters Saturday Club
Leanbh Occupational Therapy will run a school readiness group each Saturday from the 6th June to 11th July from 11a.m. to 12p.m. Booking essential as places are limited.
This is delivered by Linda Keogh Senior Occupational Therapist. See yellow poster for details.
Booking call Linda on 087-7767723 or email Lindakeoghot@gmail.com.
Dates for your Calender
June Bank Holiday: Closed Monday 1st June 2015
Montessori: Finished Wednesday 24th June 2015
Summer Break: Closing Friday 31st July 2015 & re-opening Monday 17th August 2015
Any other business
We would appreciate if ECCE children were collected on time to ensure staff cover at all times, (we can accomodate extra time, just let us know in advance).
Times of sessions 9am to 12p.m. and 2p.m. to 5p.m.
As always if you have any areas of concern please feel free to discuss with me.
Margaret Connell May 2015
NEWSLETTER~ EASTER 2015
Community Involvement
Linking with our commitment of community involvement as part of the program delivered in Teach Leanbh, we will have a special visit from a member of the Garda and Brenda Shannon from the Department of Health to chat with the children on Wednesday . These visits are of great benefit.
Easter hunt this Thursday 26th March. Please bring your wellies in case of wet weather.
We are running our Easter Camp again this year details as follows:
Dates: Tuesday 7th to Friday 10th April 2015
Time: 10am to 1pm
Price: €60
Programme Includes: Indoor and Outdoor Activities, Treasure Hunt, Creative Play, Cooking, Arts Please ensure to book your child's place if you wish them to attend.
Preparation for School Course
We are also hoping to run a Preparation for School course over six Saturday sessions. This will be a small group which will be delivered by a Senior Occupational Therapist.
Easter Break ECCE Scheme - Free pre-school & Crafts, Disco, Fancy Dress
Closed from Monday 30th March to Friday 10th April 2015 both dates inclusive.
(See Policy - Normal fees apply)
Day Care Closed Good Friday 3rd April 2015
Closed Easter Bank Holiday Monday 6th April 2015.
May Bank Holiday Closed Bank Holiday Monday 4th May 2015
June Bank Holiday Closed Bank Holiday Monday 1st June 2015
Montessori – ECCE Finishes on Wednesday 24th June 2015
As always if you have any areas of concern please feel free to discuss with me.
Wishing all children, parents, guardians and staff a Very Happy and Peaceful Easter.
Margaret March 2015
Spring Newsletter
Spring is here come lets cheer Christmas concert was a huge success thanks to everyone involved €300 euro was raised for St. Vincent de Paul. Well done to the children. Aistear in Action- On site mentoring. We are privileged to be chosen as the centre to be involved in this program. Its aim is to enhance the quality of early years experiences in our setting. On site mentoring will take place Friday 13th March where a professional from the early years will come on a site visit to support us with quality practice in our setting.
The Association of childcare professionals
The Association is holding a rally on Tuesday 17th February in Dublin. Its purpose is to highlight the vital role played by childhood professionals in supporting the children and families at this vital stage of their development. Staff from Teach Leanbh are welcome to attend. Those who cannot attend will wear red to show their support. We have downloaded petitions for you if you wish to be involved to support quality care.
Dates for your diary
Closing 17th March
Easter ECCE closing from 30th March to reopen 13th April.
Full day care closed Friday 3rd and Monday 6th April.
2015 ECCE enrollment.
Bookings are now open for ECCE scheme for September 2015. Eligible children must be 3 years by the 30th June 2015.
July 2015 4 weeks – 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th July.
This is a wonderful opportunity to support your child in the transition into Montessori.
As always feel free to discuss any areas of concern with management at a time suitable to you.
Margaret Connell
Owner / Manager
New Year 2015
Happy New Year to everyone
Christmas Play
Fantastic work by all the senior Montessori class in the backstage. To date we raised €259 for St. Vincent de Paul.
Margaret Connell
WINTER 2014 ~ NEWSLETTER
Allergens Notification
As and from 13th December 2014 the onus is on Childcare Centres to list allergens being supplied in food. To this end posted in the hallway with our menu is a list of allergens present. This will also be uploaded on our website. Please let us know if your child has any special dietary requirements.
Dates for your Diary
Children's Christmas Variety Concert
This takes place on Saturday 20th December in Backstage at 4pm. It is important to book as places are limited to 200 we are allocating tickets 4 per family. A list of parents have been given to the Backstage Theatre. There is no cost but subscriptions are welcome for St. Vincent De Paul. You need to ring the Backstage Theatre on tel 043-3347888 to book your place.
If any parent wishes to donate their talents on the day e.g. sing, play or dance you are most welcome.
Christmas Dinner
We will be holding our Christmas Dinner on Friday 12th December.
Santa
Plans for Santa's visit are underway, details later.
Dates
Full Day Care Closed Tuesday 23rd December 2014 at 4pm
We are opened Mon 29th, Tue 30th & Wed 31st Dec 2014
Closed Thur 1st & Fri 2nd Jan 2015
ECCE Finishes 19th Dec 2014 and re-starts Mon 5th Jan 2015
Accounts
Usual fees apply (please refer to your handbook). As always we would appreciate if accounts are brought up to date.
Any other business
As always if at any time you wish to discuss any area of your child's progress or you have any areas of concern please feel free to discuss with me.
Margaret Connell
November 2014
HALLOWEEN 2014 - NEWSLETTER
Wishing all our children, parents and staff a Happy Halloween.
New Appointments
Bronagh Sheridan is Named Person in Charge covering for Gina Honeyman who is on maternity leave. Sinead Benison is the Team Leader in the Toddler Room.
Thanks
Thank you so much for all your good wishes for Gina, Tom and Edie.
Our Secret Garden
As we are opening our Secret Garden tomorrow Friday 24th October please bring your wellies with you.
Halloween Party
Our Halloween Party is also tomorrow Friday 24th October. The Longford Leader will attend.
If you have any objections to your child's photo being displayed please let me know.
Dates for your Calender
Montessori Sessional
Mid-term Closed Monday 27th October 2014 to Friday 31st October 2014 (inclusive) and re-start Monday 3rd November 2014
Full Day Care
October Bank Holiday Closed Monday 27th October 2014
Slán
Margaret Connell October 2014
