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Starting nursery is a significant milestone for both children and parents. It is often the first time your child will spend extended periods away from you, experiencing new environments, routines and relationships that will help shape their confidence and independence.
While it is normal for parents to feel a mixture of excitement and nervousness, there are many simple, practical steps you can take to prepare your child for nursery, ensuring the transition feels positive and calm for the whole family. Many early years settings, such as Kensington Kindergarten, encourage parents to support readiness at home through small, manageable changes that build confidence and familiarity with the idea of nursery.
Talk Positively About Nursery
Children often pick up on their parents’ emotions, so try to talk about nursery as an exciting place where they will make friends, play with new toys, and try fun activities. You might look at photos of the nursery together if these are available or walk past the building during your day to build familiarity with the setting.
Reading books about starting nursery can also help to prepare your child for what to expect, allowing them to ask questions and express any worries they may have in a safe, calm environment.
Establish a Consistent Routine
Nurseries typically follow a consistent routine each day, and preparing your child for this in advance can ease the transition. If possible, begin adjusting bedtimes and wake-up times a few weeks before starting nursery to align with the timings you will need. Establishing a predictable morning routine, including getting dressed, having breakfast, and preparing a bag together, will help mornings feel less rushed and more enjoyable for your child.
Practise Independence
Supporting your child to develop independence in small tasks can help them feel more confident in the nursery environment. Encourage them to practise putting on their shoes, feeding themselves, washing their hands, and using the toilet if they are at that stage. These skills will help your child feel capable and secure in a new environment where they will be encouraged to do more for themselves.
Visit the Nursery Together
If your chosen nursery offers stay-and-play sessions or settling-in visits, take advantage of these opportunities to help your child become familiar with the staff, environment, and other children in a low-pressure setting. This helps to reduce any anxiety your child may feel on their first day, as the space will no longer feel entirely new or intimidating.
Label Your Child’s Belongings
It may seem like a small detail, but labelling your child’s clothing, water bottles, and bags will save time and confusion once they start nursery. It also helps your child recognise their belongings and take responsibility for looking after them.
Manage Separation Anxiety Gently
It is normal for children (and parents) to feel emotional when separating at drop-off time. To help your child, try to keep goodbyes calm and positive, offering reassurance that you will be back later. Avoid long, drawn-out farewells, as these can make separation more difficult for both of you. Most children settle quickly once the goodbye is over, especially if they feel secure in the knowledge that you will return.
Keep Communication Open
After your child starts nursery, make time to talk about their day in a relaxed manner. Asking open-ended questions such as “What did you enjoy today?” or “Who did you play with?” can help encourage your child to share their experiences and feelings with you. This also allows you to identify any concerns early on and work with nursery staff to address them if needed.
Be Patient With the Transition
Every child is unique, and while some may settle into nursery life quickly, others may take a little longer to adjust. Be patient and consistent with your support, maintaining routines and offering reassurance where needed. Over time, most children grow to love their nursery experience, benefiting from the new friendships, activities and learning opportunities it offers.
Final Thoughts
Starting nursery is an exciting step in your child’s development, providing opportunities for growth, social interaction, and exploration. By preparing your child gently and positively, you can help to create a smooth transition that sets the stage for a confident and happy start to their early years education.
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