Little Waves Daycare

Individual support gives Little Waves Daycare its clearest character: in March 2026, education plans, visiting specialists and resources chosen around children's needs shaped its provision. Based at Green Gates Childrens Centre in Redcar, it accepts children aged 2 to 60 months.

At the 5 March 2026 inspection, Ofsted judged inclusion to be Strong standard, the other five areas to be Expected standard, and safeguarding standards to be met. The practical reservations centre on learning during meals and communication between childcare settings.

In March 2026, the curriculum followed the early years foundation stage, the framework for children's learning, development and care: play, conversation, physical activity and everyday routines contributed to learning. Staff adapted activities around children's starting points rather than giving everyone the same next step.

Stories encouraged imaginative play. In March 2026, children discussed favourite characters, while pretend cooking introduced vocabulary through familiar experiences. Mathematical language also reached beyond counting: block structures prompted talk about size, and outdoor equipment gave children opportunities to explore position.

Garden play brought movement into the day. In March 2026, babies practised ball skills, older children aimed kicks through hoops, and obstacle courses and balance beams offered physical challenges. These were concrete opportunities to practise coordination and persistence.

At its March 2026 inspection, Ofsted found effective support for children with SEND, including individual education plans reviewed regularly and input from speech and language therapists and portage workers. This gave additional support a practical structure, with specialist advice carried into children's plans.

In March 2026, the key-person arrangement connected children, staff and families, and parents contributed information about children's starting points. Moves into an older group were discussed with parents; children needing more time could remain with familiar staff in smaller groups.

Care routines also offered small steps towards independence. In March 2026, children practised handwashing, managing coats and putting resources away; toothbrushing used sand timers to make the routine understandable. Staff used stories, songs and colours to help children talk about emotions.

School transition work included sharing children's routines, needs and achievements. In March 2026, however, communication with other childcare providers was less consistent, making this a relevant consideration for children attending two settings.

The address is Green Gates Childrens Centre, Keilder Close, Redcar, TS10 4HS. Opening hours are 7.30am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, with year-round opening except Bank Holidays.

In March 2026, snacks included fruit, water and milk. Meal routines needed more attention: pre-cut fruit reduced opportunities for children to practise chopping, while practical tasks sometimes interrupted conversation.

• Shared childcare. In March 2026, information exchange with other providers needed strengthening. Families using two settings should discuss how staff will coordinate learning and support.
• Learning at meals. March 2026 meal routines offered fewer opportunities for conversation, social interaction and practical skills than they could. Ask how these routines have developed.
• Attendance planning. The nursery opens throughout the year except Bank Holidays. At a visit, discuss which booking pattern and funding arrangements fit your family's week.

Little Waves suits families who value individual support and year-round opening. Its March 2026 practice combined specialist involvement, parent-informed transitions and learning through familiar play. Families sharing care between providers should give communication particular attention, alongside the development of mealtime learning.