Fliperz Child Care has started to open all day for children between the ages of 2 and 5. Newly appointed Nursery Manager, Caroline Hubbar, 34, said: "We’re trying to create a homely atmosphere with an educational element in line with Scottish Educational guidelines for 3 and 4 year olds." The new centre operates in conjunction with Fliperz Out of School Centre which takes children up to 12 years old.

Caroline said: "We work with a ratio of one play leader to five children. We’re working towards forming a homely group where the children experience daily life and routines within a safe and friendly environment."

Lots of thought and expertise goes into creating the right sort of place for younger children to learn. Parents provide a packed lunch for their children. "After lunch there’s a quiet time for the children to relax and do calming activities. We tell stories, sometimes they watch TV if the children ask for it and there’s provision for a sleep if required," said Caroline.

"We’re trying to make a home from home. All the activities are set out and the children have a free choice. This morning they did paintings and made jigsaws and then we had our morning snack. We try to keep all snacks healthy - we’re working toward excellence in child care in the Highlands," she said. All Fliperz staff are trained to SVQ levels two and three, or working towards these.

Currently all children coming to Fliperz must be potty trained which has nothing to do with Caroline being afraid of smelly nappies. "We don’t have nappy changing facilities yet but if there seems to be demand for it we’ll consider it," explained Caroline.

We are also pleased to welcome 2 other new staff members in Fliperz, Helen Gunn and Olivia Wood

Parents looking for child care for their children can find out more about Fliperz from Kath on 240085 or Caroline/Kolette on 234232