Hopes & Dreams Nurseries has cut its use of plastic in the curriculum.

The project has seen plastic toys being donated to charity and replaced with toys made from natural resources.

And work carried out at the Douglas nursery in Woodbourne Road has been completed using natural materials.

It comes after Hopes & Dreams - which also runs Parklands Nursery in Ramsey - enrolled on The Curiosity Approach accreditation programme, which aims to raise standards in early years’ provision.

Hopes & Dreams is owned by Gary and Laura Peirce.

Laura said: ’Hopes & Dreams are committed to reducing plastic throughout our nurseries.

’While the removal of plastic toys is a huge step for the opportunities we provide for the children it is also part of teaching children to look after the environment.

’We have also introduced bamboo drinking cups for the children, and are in the process of sourcing menu items from local suppliers to reduce food miles and support the Manx economy.’

She added: ’Our team are continually working on other solutions to eradicate plastics throughout the nursery environment.’

The Douglas nursery is halfway through the 12-month improvement programme to gain accreditation and Parklands will be next to follow suit.

Other changes to the nursery are replacing the brightly decorated walls to create a more calmer environment.

Laura said: ’Researchers have discovered that brightly coloured rooms and bright visual displays can overwhelm and distract children, negatively impacting learning and retention.’

Hopes & Dreams Nurseries celebrates its 21st anniversary this year.