Starting nursery is a big milestone for both children and parents. With the right preparation, you can help make the transition as smooth as possible.
Before Nursery Starts
Talk About It
- Read books about starting nursery together
- Talk positively about what they'll do there
- Answer their questions honestly
- Avoid building it up too much or they may feel pressured
Visit Together
- Take advantage of settling-in sessions
- Walk past the nursery regularly so it becomes familiar
- Let your child see you being friendly with the staff
Practice the Routine
- Gradually adjust sleep and meal times
- Practice getting ready in the morning
- Do a few "dummy runs" of the journey
Build Independence Skills
- Encourage self-feeding
- Practice putting on shoes and coats
- Work on toilet training if age-appropriate
The Settling-In Period
Most nurseries offer a gradual settling-in process:
Week 1
- Short visits with you present
- Gradually increasing time apart
Week 2
- Longer sessions without you
- Building confidence and familiarity
Week 3+
- Full sessions
- Established routine
On the Day
Morning Tips
- Stay calm and positive (children pick up on your anxiety)
- Allow plenty of time so you're not rushed
- Bring a comfort item if the nursery allows it
- Say goodbye confidently and leave promptly
Drop-Off
- Keep goodbyes short and sweet
- Establish a goodbye routine (a kiss and a wave, for example)
- Don't sneak away - always say goodbye
- Trust the staff to comfort your child
What to Expect
It's completely normal for children to:
- Cry at drop-off (often stopping within minutes)
- Be tired and emotional after nursery
- Regress in some behaviours temporarily
- Take a few weeks to fully settle
Supporting Your Child
- Ask about their day without overwhelming them
- Maintain consistent routines at home
- Be patient with emotional moments
- Celebrate small successes
- Stay in communication with nursery staff
When to Be Concerned
Speak to the nursery if your child:
- Is still very distressed after several weeks
- Shows signs of stress at home (nightmares, appetite changes)
- Doesn't want to talk about nursery at all
- Shows concerning behaviour changes
Remember, most children settle well within a few weeks. Trust the process, and don't be afraid to ask for support if you need it.
