Our nursery

A gentle, secure place where every baby grows at their own pace.

At Garderie Saint-Bruno, the nursery is a dedicated space for babies from 0 to 18 months, designed to meet their fundamental needs while gently supporting their development. We offer a secure setting where each child’s rhythm is respected and where care and discovery go hand in hand every day. Our trained, caring team supports the little ones in their first experiences of group life, in close partnership with families.

Play and rest space for infants at the daycare

A day in the nursery

A day in the nursery follows a flexible yet structured routine that reassures babies and gives them clear reference points. From arrival, each child is welcomed individually: we take time for the transition with the parent, for gentle hellos and goodbyes. Then, periods of wakefulness and free play alternate with care (diaper changes, meals, bottles) and sleep. We never impose a rigid schedule; we adapt to each baby’s signals of tiredness, hunger and alertness, while offering a common frame that allows the team to run the day smoothly.

Awakening activities are varied and age-appropriate: play on mats, exploration of safe small objects, songs and rhymes, picture books, and free movement. We ensure each baby has quiet time and more active time according to their stage of development. Transitions are supported with words and touch: we name what we are doing, we prepare the child for change, and we stay attuned to their reactions. This caring routine builds trust and helps infants thrive in a group setting.

Sleep: two naps per day

Sleep is essential to infant development. In the nursery, we plan for two nap periods per day, tailored to each child’s age and rhythm. Younger babies may have shorter, more frequent cycles; over the months we gradually consolidate two main rest periods, usually in the morning and early afternoon. Each baby has their own crib or bed in a calm, dimmed space that supports falling asleep.

We respect each family’s habits: comfort blanket, soother, soft music or lullaby. Educators support falling asleep with a reassuring presence and a consistent routine (for example: change, pyjamas or comfortable clothes, quiet time, then into bed). We never leave a baby to cry without response; we check regularly and adjust when needed. Quality sleep supports balance, appetite and alertness; we make it a daily priority.

Nursery space: soft, safe environment

Hygiene and care

Hygiene is at the heart of our nursery practice. Diaper changes are done on demand and according to a strict protocol: dedicated surface, handwashing before and after each change, safe disposal of waste. We use supplies provided by families (diapers, wipes) and ensure each child has enough stock. Babies’ skin is delicate; we apply barrier cream as recommended by parents when needed and report any irritation or discomfort.

Handwashing for children and staff is systematic: before meals, after diaper changes, after play or outdoor time. Toys and surfaces are cleaned and disinfected according to current standards. We keep the space clean and tidy to reduce the risk of infection and provide a healthy environment for all. These daily actions, carried out with care and consistency, support the wellbeing and safety of every baby.

Milk, formula and age-appropriate food

Feeding in the nursery is adapted to each child’s age and development. We supply 3.25% (homogenized) milk for babies who drink it; parents may bring breast milk or a specific formula if they prefer, labelled with the child’s name and stored refrigerated. Bottles are prepared and given according to family instructions (amounts, timing), and we encourage a calm, relational moment during feeds. We keep information on allergies and feeding preferences up to date.

Once solids are introduced, we offer suitable foods: purées, progressive textures, soft pieces according to age and ability. Meals and snacks are prepared following good nutritional and hygiene practices. We support early autonomy by letting the baby explore food with their hands when appropriate, while always supervising. Our goal is to make mealtime pleasant and safe, in line with each child’s development and family habits.

Baby exploring and taking first steps

The importance of first steps

First steps are a major milestone for the little one and their family. In the nursery we create an environment that encourages free movement and safe exploration. Babies have access to open spaces, comfortable mats and age-appropriate equipment (support bars, stable furniture, push toys) that invite them to stand, move and gain confidence in their bodies. We never push a milestone; we provide the conditions and support so the child can progress at their own pace.

Every progress is welcomed with joy and kindness: a first crawl, an attempt to stand, a hesitant step then a steadier one. We share these moments with families through conversation and, if desired, photos or written observations. First steps symbolize growing autonomy and openness to the world; we are proud to support babies and their parents on this journey.

Outdoors every day

Outdoor time is part of our nursery program every day. Whenever the weather allows, we take the babies outside: stroller walks, time on a blanket in the sun or shade, exploration of the garden or a secure outdoor area. Fresh air, natural light and sensory experiences (breeze, gentle warmth, smells) support physical and emotional wellbeing. These outings are also a chance to name what we see (trees, birds, sky) and enrich language.

We adapt the length and type of activity to the children’s age and the weather. In winter we go out well wrapped for short outings; in spring and summer we enjoy the outdoors more. Safety is always first: constant supervision, defined space, sun protection and hydration. Offering outdoor time every day gives babies a taste for nature and discovery from their first months of life.

Their wonderful first years, with us

Give your baby a gentle start in a safe, caring environment.

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Frequently asked questions – Nursery

  • How does integration work in the nursery?

    Integration is gradual and adapted to your baby's pace and your family's needs. We offer half days or short stays at first, with a parent present if you wish. We gradually increase the length of stay and independence, always following your child's cues. Our team guides you and stays in touch to adjust the schedule.

  • Can I bring breast milk or formula for my baby?

    We supply 3.25% (homogenized) milk for babies who drink it. If your child has breast milk or a specific formula (without special prescription needs), you may bring a day's supply labelled with their name. We store it properly and serve it according to your instructions. For quantities or timing, we work with you to match your routine.

  • Do you provide diapers and wipes?

    Diapers and wipes are provided by parents. Each child has a designated space for their supplies. We tell you how much to bring and will let you know when to restock. We change diapers throughout the day with care for hygiene and your baby's comfort.

  • Should I bring a change of clothes?

    Yes. We ask that you leave a full change of clothes (onesie, top, bottom, socks, spare diapers if needed) in your child's cubby or bag. Small accidents and messes are common; a change of clothes keeps your baby comfortable all day. Everything should be labelled with your child's name.

  • Do babies go outside every day?

    Yes. We value outdoor time highly. Whenever the weather allows, we take the infants outside every day for fresh air, safe exploration of nature and natural light. We adapt the length and type of activity to the children's age and the temperature. Outdoor time is a key part of the day for wellbeing and development.

  • How are naps organized?

    We plan for two nap periods per day, tailored to each baby's age and rhythm. Each child has their own crib or bed in a calm, dimmed space. We respect each family's habits (comfort object, soother, lullaby) and support falling asleep with a consistent routine. We never leave a baby to cry without response.

  • What age are the children in the nursery?

    The nursery welcomes babies from 0 to 18 months. Groups are formed by age and development. Around 18 months we prepare the transition to the toddler group gradually, in close communication with families.

  • What should my baby bring each day?

    In addition to a change of clothes and diapers: bottles or milk if you supply them, soother and comfort object if your child uses them (labelled with their name). For babies on solids we can provide meals and snacks; otherwise we follow your instructions. A detailed list is provided at registration.

  • How do you introduce solid foods?

    We offer age-appropriate foods: purées, progressive textures, soft pieces. Meals and snacks follow good nutrition and hygiene practices. We take into account allergies and preferences noted by families and encourage safe exploration.

  • Can I call or drop in during the day?

    Yes. You can call to check in. If you want to stop by briefly, we prefer advance notice so we don't disrupt the group's routine. We also communicate in writing (daily log or messages) according to the daycare's practice.

  • How do you handle allergies and special needs?

    We take into account food allergies and each child's health needs. Information is posted and shared with the team. For specific protocols (EpiPen, special diet), we train and follow parent and doctor guidelines.

  • How does the transition to the toddler group work?

    Around 18 months we prepare the transition with the family: visits to the new room, meeting the educator, gradual adjustment. We ensure your child feels secure before leaving the nursery. Each child moves at their own pace.

  • What safety measures are in place in the nursery?

    The space is set up for babies: compliant cribs and beds, safe areas, no small objects within reach. We follow hygiene standards (handwashing, disinfection), diaper and feeding protocols, and provide constant supervision.

  • Do you accept part-time babies?

    We accept part-time for 2 or 3 days per week depending on availability. Contact us to check which spaces are available for your child's age group.