Helping Your Child Settle into Nursery: A Gentle Start
The first days are easier when the child and the parents are prepared. A few simple steps make the start calmer for everyone.
Starting nursery is a big step for a young child and for parents too. It is normal for a child to cry, cling or be quiet during the first days. This is a sign that the child is attached to you, and with patience and a steady routine most children settle in gradually.
Before the first day, talk about nursery in a simple and positive way. Tell your child that they will play with other children, meet kind teachers, and that you will come back to pick them up. If you can, visit the nursery together first so the rooms, the playground and the faces are already familiar.
On the first days, keep the goodbye short, calm and always the same. A hug, a smile and a clear sentence such as: I will see you after lunch. Avoid leaving without saying goodbye, because it can make a child more worried the next day. Many children feel better with a small comfort item from home if the nursery allows it.
Share useful information with the team: what your child likes, how they fall asleep, their eating habits, any allergy or health need, and the words they use to ask for help. The more the team knows, the easier it is to care for your child in the way they are used to.
Give it time. Some children settle in a few days and others need a few weeks. Keep the morning routine stable, speak positively about nursery at home, and stay in touch with the team about how the days are going.
General parenting information only; every child is different. For any health or development concern, speak with your child’s doctor.
