Anna Croasdell on starting Nursery

Starting Nursery: Helping Your Child Settle In - Starting nursery is a big milestone for both children and parents. It can be exciting, emotional and, sometimes, a little daunting. For some children, walking through the nursery door for the first time is an exciting adventure. For others, it can take a little longer to feel comfortable with new faces, new surroundings and a new routine. At Bumble Bees Day Nursery & Preschool, we understand that every child is different. There is no right or wrong way to settle into nursery, and we work closely with families to make the transition as gentle and positive as possible.

Before your child starts - A little preparation at home can help your child feel more familiar with the idea of nursery. Talk about nursery positively and simply. You could talk about the toys they might play with, the friends they might make or the activities they might enjoy. If possible, try practising parts of your nursery routine at home. Getting dressed, having breakfast and leaving the house at a similar time can make those first mornings feel more familiar. You can also talk about who will collect them. Children often find reassurance in knowing exactly what will happen after their nursery day.

It’s okay if they cry - One of the biggest worries we hear from parents is:

“What if my child cries when I leave?” - Crying at drop-off can be completely normal, particularly during the early days. Starting nursery is a big change, and your child may simply be expressing that they don’t want you to leave. It doesn’t necessarily mean they are unhappy at nursery. Often, once a parent has left and a familiar member of staff has offered some reassurance, children become involved in an activity or start exploring their surroundings. And sometimes they don’t! Every child is different, and some children simply need more time.

Keep goodbye calm and positive - It can be tempting to prolong goodbye when your child is upset, but a calm and confident goodbye can often help.

A simple: - “Have a lovely day. I’ll see you after nursery.”  followed by a reassuring cuddle and goodbye can give your child a clear message that you are coming back. Our team will be there to support your child once you have left and, where appropriate, keep you updated so you know how they are getting on. Don’t forget we are the experts in settling children into nursery so please don’t be offended if we take your child in a swift manner, we’re ripping the plaster off.

Don’t compare your child with another - You may see another child happily running into nursery while yours wants to stay firmly attached to your leg! Try not to worry.

Some children settle within a couple of sessions. Others take weeks to develop that same confidence. Settling in isn’t a race. Our aim is to help your child gradually build relationships, become familiar with their surroundings and develop the confidence to enjoy their time at Bumble Bees.

The importance of familiar faces - Building relationships is at the heart of nursery life.Children need to feel safe and secure before they can confidently explore, play and learn. That’s why getting to know your child’s personality, interests, routines and individual needs is so important to us. We want to know the little things that make your child them. What makes them laugh? What comforts them when they’re upset? Which book do they ask you to read again and again? What are they fascinated by? These little details help us create a familiar and reassuring environment where your child can feel at home.

Give them time - You may notice that your child is more tired than usual when they first start nursery. They are experiencing lots of new things — new people, new routines, new friendships and new experiences. Some children may also be more emotional at home during the first few weeks.  This doesn’t necessarily mean that nursery isn’t going well. It can simply be their way of processing a very big new experience. With patience, consistency and reassurance, most children gradually become more confident and comfortable.

And remember — we’re here for you too - Starting nursery can be just as emotional for parents. Leaving your child for the first time can feel strange, particularly if this is the first time you’ve spent a significant amount of time apart.

Please don’t be afraid to ask questions, tell us your concerns or let us know anything that might help your child.