FAQ
Our approach, languages, learning and Development & More
At Stepping Stones, we naturally incorporate both of Malta’s official languages — English and Maltese — into our daily routines and learning experiences. Educators communicate in both languages throughout the day, helping children become confident and comfortable expressing themselves in each. Through songs, stories, conversations, and play-based activities, children develop strong language foundations in a supportive and engaging environment.
The Reggio Emilia Approach is a child-led philosophy of education that began in Italy after World War II. It recognises children as capable, curious individuals with a natural desire to explore and discover. At Stepping Stones, we follow this approach by encouraging children to ask questions, investigate ideas, solve problems, and express themselves in many different ways — through art, music, movement, storytelling, construction, and more.
We follow a holistic programme that nurtures social, emotional, cognitive, physical, and language development. Through play-based exploration, collaborative projects, and daily observations, we create experiences that strengthen identity, confidence, communication skills, and a lifelong love of learning.
At Stepping Stones, we understand that separation anxiety is a normal and natural part of early childhood development. Our educators gently support children through this stage by providing a predictable routine, warm reassurance, and consistent, familiar faces each day. We encourage positive goodbyes, gradual settling-in periods, and the use of comfort items from home when needed. By working closely with families and building strong, trusting relationships, we help children feel safe, secure, and confident as they adjust to their new environment.
We welcome children from 2 months to 3 years of age, supporting them through babies, toddlers, and preschool groups. Each child is placed according to age and developmental stage to ensure their individual needs are met. We will always encourage mothers to care for their babies up until the age of 3 months, however, we also understand that some mothers do not have this option.
Termination, safety, qualifications & more
Parents are required to give four weeks’ notice if you they wish to terminate their child from any of our
centres.
We use the Procare App, which allows families to receive real-time updates, observations, photos, developmental reports, and important centre news. We also hold parental meetings twice a year and maintain open daily communication with families. We truly believe in working in partnership with parents.
Your child’s safety is our highest priority. All centres are equipped with CCTV or video intercom systems, secure sign-in/out fob access, fire safety equipment, and certified health & safety inspections. All staff are trained in paediatric first aid and follow strict hygiene and supervision procedures at all times.
All educators hold the required MQF childcare qualifications, paediatric first aid certification, food handling certification, and clean police conduct. We also invest in ongoing professional development, mentoring, and supervision to ensure our team maintains the highest standards of care and education.
Managing behaviour, special needs, sickness & routine
We use positive guidance strategies rooted in respect and understanding. Children are never subjected to physical punishment, humiliation, or negative reinforcement. Instead, educators model appropriate behaviour, explain boundaries calmly, redirect when necessary, and encourage children to develop self-discipline and empathy.
We are committed to inclusion and equal opportunities for all children. Early identification, detailed observation, and partnership with families allow us to support children who may need additional guidance. We work collaboratively with early years professionals when required and adapt activities and environments to ensure every child can thrive.
If a child becomes unwell during the day, parents will be contacted immediately. Sick children must remain at home and return with a medical certificate when required. In the case of accidents, first aid is administered immediately, parents are informed, and all incidents are documented on Procare.
Children feel secure when routines are predictable. A typical day includes arrival, breakfast, indoor and outdoor exploration, circle time, project work inspired by children’s interests, lunch, rest time, special sessions (music, art, fitness, earth program), and afternoon activities — all balanced between structured guidance and free exploration.
Special events, government scheme, data protection & More
Yes! We organise outings throughout the year to extend children’s learning beyond the classroom. We also host parent & child clubs, birthday celebrations, transition parties, and graduation events to create meaningful shared experiences for families.
Families who meet the government eligibility criteria may benefit from the Free Childcare Scheme. The number of free hours allocated is based on parental work or education hours. Our team is happy to guide families through the application process.
All personal records are stored securely and handled in accordance with the Data Protection Act. Information is kept confidential and only shared with appropriate authorities when legally required.
Absolutely. We encourage families to book an orientation visit to explore the centre, meet educators, and experience our environment firsthand. Our doors are always open to families considering Stepping Stones.
What to bring to childcare, food allergies, staff-to-child ratios & more
We follow the Maltese national standards for childcare ratios to ensure every child receives attentive, individualised care. Children are grouped by age and developmental stage so that educators can provide appropriate supervision, guidance, and meaningful engagement throughout the day.
Our educators conduct regular observations and create developmental reports aligned with national early years learning outcomes. You will receive monthly observations via Procare, along with photos and learning stories. Formal progress meetings are held every six months to discuss your child’s growth and goals together.
We recommend labelled spare clothes, indoor shoes (no laces or flip-flops), nappies and wipes (if applicable), bedding for rest time, and a comfort item if needed. Full guidance is provided during enrolment to ensure your child’s first days are smooth and well-prepared.
We take dietary needs very seriously. All allergies and special requirements are documented upon registration and clearly communicated to staff. Children are never allowed to share food, and we ensure that meals and snacks respect cultural, religious, and medical dietary requirements.
Transition to kindergarten, sustainability, complaints & more
As children approach Kindergarten age, we gradually introduce transition visits to older groups and encourage independence through daily routines. Graduation celebrations and structured transition support help children build confidence and readiness for their next educational step.
We offer a gradual settling-in period tailored to each child. Initially, children attend for shorter hours to build familiarity with educators, routines, and peers. This process can take up to two weeks or longer, depending on the child’s age and individual needs. We work closely with families to ensure a gentle and positive transition.
We encourage children to reduce, reuse, and recycle through daily practices and hands-on experiences. Our outdoor spaces include vegetable patches where children learn about planting and healthy eating. Sustainability is woven naturally into our curriculum to nurture respect for the environment.
We believe in open, respectful communication. Most concerns can be resolved quickly through discussion with the Centre Coordinator. If needed, a formal process is in place to ensure every matter is handled professionally, confidentially, and with your child’s wellbeing as the top priority.