Building confident learners through Awe and Wonder

Starting nursery is a significant milestone, both for children and for parents. Whether your child is a baby taking their first steps away from home or a confident toddler ready for new experiences, it is completely natural to feel a mixture of excitement, pride, and apprehension.

At nursery, our role is to work in partnership with families to ensure every child feels safe, secure, and ready to settle at their own pace. There is no “right” way to feel and no expectation that children (or parents) will adjust overnight. A positive start comes from preparation, trust, and gentle reassurance.

Before the First Day: Laying the Foundations

One of the most helpful things you can do before your child starts nursery is to talk positively about the experience. Simple conversations about where they are going, who will be there, and what they might do can help children feel more familiar with what lies ahead. For younger children, this may be through tone and repetition rather than words, while older children often benefit from clear, simple explanations.

Attending show rounds, settling-in sessions, or stay-and-play visits allows your child to begin forming relationships with their key person and exploring the environment alongside you. These early visits help build trust and confidence and give you the opportunity to ask questions and share important information about your child’s routines, interests, and needs.

Maintaining familiar routines at home, such as sleep and mealtimes, can also provide a sense of stability during this period of change.

What to Bring – and What to Leave at Home

Many parents worry about forgetting something important, but nursery days do not need to be complicated. Comfortable clothing that your child can move freely in is ideal, along with a spare change of clothes.

A familiar comfort item, such as a blanket or soft toy, can be very reassuring, particularly during rest times or moments when children need extra comfort. These items often become a bridge between home and nursery and are welcomed as part of the settling process.

There is no need to send lots of toys or personal items unless agreed in advance. Nurseries are carefully resourced to support children’s learning and care throughout the day.

The Drop-Off: Keeping Goodbyes Clear and Kind

The first drop-off can be the most emotional moment for parents. Children are very perceptive and take cues from the adults around them, so a calm, confident goodbye is one of the greatest gifts you can give your child.

It is important to say goodbye clearly, even if your child becomes upset. Leaving without saying goodbye can feel easier in the moment but can cause confusion and anxiety later on. A warm hug, a reassuring phrase, and a confident handover to a familiar practitioner help children understand that you will return.

It is also worth remembering that many children settle quickly once parents have left, even if they find the goodbye itself challenging.

How We Support Children’s First Days at Redbrick

At Redbrick, we recognise that starting nursery is a significant transition for the whole family. Our approach is calm, flexible, and tailored to each child’s individual needs.

We offer a structured settling-in process that allows children to become familiar with their environment, routines, and key person gradually. This helps children build trust and confidence while giving parents reassurance and the opportunity to share important information about their child.

Our key person approach ensures that every child has a familiar adult who understands their routines, preferences, and emotional cues. This strong relationship supports children through drop-offs and throughout the day, providing comfort, reassurance, and consistency.

We take time to communicate openly with parents, sharing how children settle and responding sensitively to any concerns. Our experienced team understands that settling is a process, not a single day, and we support children at a pace that is right for them.

Settling Takes Time – and That Is Normal

Every child settles differently. Some children feel comfortable very quickly, while others need more time to build trust and confidence. This is entirely normal and is supported carefully by experienced practitioners who understand child development and emotional wellbeing.

During the early weeks, it is common for children to be more tired, emotional, or unsettled at home. They are processing new experiences, relationships, and routines. Extra patience, early nights, and calm evenings can make a big difference.

Regular communication between home and nursery is essential. Sharing updates, asking questions, and working together ensures consistency and reassurance for your child.

Supporting Yourself as a Parent

Starting nursery is a big step for parents too. Feelings of guilt, worry, or sadness are common and do not reflect how much you value or love your child. Trusting others to care for your child is a significant act, and it takes time.

Remember that nursery is an extension of your child’s world, not a replacement for home. It offers opportunities for social development, independence, and learning through play, all within a nurturing and supportive environment.

A Positive Partnership from the Start

A successful nursery experience is built on strong relationships between children, parents, and staff. By taking time to prepare, communicating openly, and trusting the process, you are giving your child the best possible start.

If you ever have concerns, questions, or simply need reassurance, our team is always there to support you. Starting nursery is not just a day—it is a journey, and you do not have to navigate it alone.

 

 

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