We understand that leaving your child somewhere for the first time can feel like a big step. Our priority is to make the transition into Nursery or Pre-School as gentle, positive and reassuring as possible – for your child and for you.
Whether your child is joining us for the first time or moving from another setting, we take the time to get to know them as an individual and help them feel comfortable, confident and at home in their new surroundings.
Starting and settling in
Before your child starts with us, we invite you both in for an initial one-hour taster session. This gives your child the opportunity to spend time with our experienced team, explore the room they will be learning in, meet other children and begin to become familiar with their new surroundings.
It also gives you the opportunity to meet the staff who will be caring for your child and talk to us about the things that matter to them – their routines, what comforts them, what they enjoy, what they eat and anything they may be unsure or nervous about.
Every child is different, so our settling-in approach is flexible and guided by their individual needs. The initial session can be extended where appropriate, allowing your child to gradually build their confidence and familiarity at their own pace.
Some children quickly feel at home and are ready for longer sessions within a short time. Others need a little longer, and that is completely normal. We will work with you and your child throughout the process.
What helps
There are a few simple things you can do at home to help your child feel positive about starting Nursery or Pre-School:
- Talk about Nursery at home in the weeks before they start.
- If your child has a favourite comforter or familiar toy that helps them feel settled, please speak to a member of our team about whether it would be helpful to bring it in.
- Keep goodbyes warm but short and positive. A confident goodbye can help your child settle more easily.
- Talk to us about any worries you may have. We understand that starting Nursery can be an emotional time for parents too.
- Remember that settling in is different for every child. There may be good days and more challenging days, and this is completely normal.
If your child is unsettled
It is perfectly normal for some children to feel unsettled or become upset when they first arrive. As they become more familiar with the environment, staff and routines, their confidence will naturally grow.
We will keep communication with you at the heart of the settling-in process, so you can feel reassured that your child is being supported and cared for.
What to bring on the first day
Each child is given their own named peg and tray for their belongings at Nursery or Pre-School.
Your child should bring:
- Nappies and wipes, if your child is using them.
- Any creams your child may need, including sun cream. We encourage parents to apply an eight-hour sun cream in the morning.
- Winter or sun hats, available from the uniform shop.
- A named drinks bottle containing water.
- A pair of wellington boots, which can be left at school at all times. These are essential for our woodland walks.
- A school rucksack containing swimming kit, if appropriate (Pre-School).
Please ensure that all your child’s belongings are clearly named. This helps us keep everything organised and makes it easier for your child to recognise their own things.
