For many families, starting nursery can feel like a huge leap. It’s often the first time your little one has been away from home for a full day, surrounded by new faces and routines. While it’s natural for both children and parents to feel a little wobbly, there are plenty of ways to make this transition smooth, positive, and full of excitement. Read on for our helpful tips and advice.
Building confidence through routine
Young children thrive on predictability. Establishing a simple morning routine (such as getting dressed, eating breakfast, putting on their own shoes) gives a sense of security before the school day begins. Talking positively about nursery and highlighting what your child can look forward to (a favourite toy corner, storytime, or playing outside) can help them approach each day with confidence.
The Unicorn School’s Nursery in Richmond is structured around calm, consistent routines that give children a sense of security and allow them to grow in confidence each day.
“At Unicorn School every child is seen, heard, and known. Our small class sizes create space for strong relationships, where learning is personal and every child feels safe to shine.” The school says.
The role of play in settling and learning
Play isn’t just fun, it’s the key to helping young children feel comfortable in a new environment. When children step into nursery, familiar activities such as building with blocks, dressing up, or painting give them an immediate sense of belonging. Through play, they quickly discover common ground with classmates, which helps those first friendships form.
Play also provides a safe outlet for expressing feelings and processing the big change of being away from home. At the same time, it underpins early learning by developing communication, problem-solving, and creativity. A nurturing nursery environment will strike the right balance, offering both familiar, reassuring play and fresh opportunities to explore new skills.
“At Unicorn School learning is an adventure. Our rich and creative curriculum opens doors to discovery across the arts, sciences, and beyond, nurturing every child’s talents and inspiring a lifelong love of learning.”
Building relationships with friends and teachers
Forming early friendships helps children feel settled and happy. Encouraging your child to talk about who they played with, or arranging playdates outside of school, can strengthen those bonds. Equally important is the relationship with teachers: when children feel secure with the adults around them, they are more willing to take part and try new things.
“At Unicorn School we believe that kindness is the foundation of learning. Our strong pastoral care ensures every child feels safe, supported, is known and understood so they can grow with confidence, curiosity, and joy.”
Practical tips for parents
- Keep goodbyes short and positive, as lingering can make parting harder.
- If the school allows, send in a familiar comfort item (a small soft toy or family photo) for reassurance.
- Talk through the nursery day in simple steps so your child knows what to expect.
- Celebrate small milestones, like hanging up their own coat or joining a group activity.
- Stay calm and consistent, and remember children take cues from your confidence.
A positive start to school life
With the right support, nursery can build stong foundations for your child’s educational journey. Parents who approach the experience with calm reassurance, and nurseries that offer a nurturing, play-rich environment, set the stage for children to grow in independence, resilience, and happiness.
This is a sponsored post created in collaboration with Unicorn School, a co-ed, prep school for 3-11 year olds in Kew, Richmond
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