When your child has additional needs, choosing the right nursery can feel like an enormous decision. Families often carry worries about health, safety, communication and whether their child will truly be understood.
We spoke with one YMCA Newport parent about their family’s experience and what inclusive support has meant to them.
Feeling Reassured from the Start
Before their son started nursery, this family already had a positive connection with the setting.
“His older sister already attended and had been having a very good experience so I felt confident he was in good hands despite him having multiple health issues.”
That trust made a big difference at a time when many parents would understandably feel anxious.
Real Worries That Many Parents Will Understand
Their concerns were not small ones. They centred around medical needs, daily care and safety.
“Our son was born with multiple health problems that were difficult to manage. I wanted to make sure these would be catered for and medication and medical instructions could be followed when required. He also has severe allergies so I needed to know he could be safe from that as well.”
For many families, these are the kinds of worries that can make childcare feel overwhelming.
The right support can turn fear into reassurance and help families feel they are not carrying everything alone.
Support for the Whole Family
What stood out most was not only the care given to their child, but the support shown to them as parents too.
“They have been absolutely fantastic in supporting both of our children from both a care and learning perspective.”
“They have also always taken the time to check in on us as parents as well to offer guidance and support for managing at home.”
That joined-up support can be life changing for families carrying a lot.
Despite the challenges this family were facing, they said they always felt reassured that their child was being given the best opportunities while attending nursery.
“They have been a god send and honestly we don’t know how we would have managed without their support. Thanks aren’t enough.”
Helping Children Thrive
Since attending nursery, their child has continued to develop and grow in confidence.
“He has been thriving and learning new skills every day.”
This is exactly what inclusive early years support should look like: children feeling safe enough to learn, explore and flourish.
A Message to Other Parents
When asked what they would say to another parent in a similar position, their answer was powerful.
“You would be hard pushed to find another nursery that not only do their job but in our case often go above and beyond.”
“If you are looking for a nursery that genuinely cares about the children they look after and their parents or caregivers, YMCA Newport are it.”
“They have great outside space for the children to explore and gain new skills and are always finding new ways to help your child progress and grow.”
Inclusion in Action at YMCA
At YMCA Fairthorne Group, inclusion is not a slogan. It is part of how we care, teach, communicate and build relationships every day.
We are proud to support children with a wide range of needs and to work closely with families so every child feels valued, understood and able to thrive. If you would like to speak to us about your child’s needs, our teams are always happy to help.
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