A welcoming environment

18 Dec A welcoming environment

Change can often be challenging for young children so it’s important that nursery provides a welcoming environment where they can settle in at their own pace.

That was the case for Wilfrid Ludkin, whose family moved to the area from London in 2021 and he had to adapt to starting nursery and having baby sister Martha on the scene.

“It was quite different for him to be in a nursery with lots of other children, as well as getting used to a new house and a new baby,” said mum Lottie Ludkin.

“But the team at Baldersby Park were just phenomenal. New nursery practitioner Miss Amanda started on the same day, and they formed an immediate bond and he grew to adore the place, racing in every day.”

Lottie witnessed first-hand the benefits of social interaction for toddlers.

“In London, Wilf had been with a childminder who was very good however I feel that being with other children on that daily basis helped him develop. At Baldersby they encourage self-worth and self-confidence in all children and how to get along with others.”

Wilf is now doing well at a local primary school and still maintains a strong bond with friends he made at nursery. Meanwhile, sister Martha has followed in his footsteps and attends Baldersby Park four days a week.

“When Martha gets excited you know it because she kicks her legs and as soon as she realises we are on our way to nursery they start swinging from side to side,” said Lottie.

“I am seeing a difference in her early development compared to Wilf due to her starting nursery at a younger age. She tries to dress herself and is more independent than Wilf was at that age, and I think this is from observing other children.”

Martha, now 18 months old, also takes home other skills she has enjoyed learning at Baldersby. If mum puts some music on, she’s up and dancing and if there’s pens and paper about, she’ll happily take the initiative and start drawing from her imagination.

Lottie was brought up in the area and attended Queen Mary’s School – in whose grounds Baldersby Park nursery is based. Her work took her to London for many years until she decided to return to North Yorkshire to be nearer family whilst continuing in her job researching and managing film locations.

“It’s lovely for me to come home, the children have settled so well, and I do think Baldersby Park Nursery played a big part in that.”