Little Prodigies Director Juliette Raymondeau on helping your child to build the confidence to make a successful transition to nursery school

Q: I want to give my daughter a head start before finding a nursery place. How can I support her confidence and curiosity to learn and make the transition to a group setting easier for her?

A: Entering nursery school marks a significant transition in your child’s life. It could be their first experience of separation from you, which might feel daunting. By applying these few tips, you can assist your child in settling and adjusting to nursery life. 

Before your child starts nursery, provide opportunities for them to explore and discover new environments by taking them to places like parks, museums, and libraries where they can engage and become more confident with new surroundings.  

Children learn better when they follow a routine. Establishing a daily routine that includes set times for activities like meals, playtime, and rest can help your children feel secure and confident. Consistency and predictability are key here! 

Socialising your toddlers very early will help them develop their social skills and learn how to interact with their peers. This will help them to be comfortable in a room when joining the nursery. You can organise playdates and go to your local baby & toddler classes/playgroups with other children their age. 

“Children learn better when they follow a routine, so establishing set times for activities at home, such as mealtimes and play, can help them to feel secure and confident”

Talk positively about the nursery to your child and make it sound exciting. Show them pictures of the nursery, walk to the nursery if you can, and talk about the fun activities they’ll get to do and the friends they will make. There are lots of books available online about starting nursery which will also support your child’s understanding. 

If possible, arrange a visit to the nursery or join the nursery open morning before your child is due to start. This will help your child become familiar with the environment and meet the teachers and other children – both will support a smoother transition.  

Help your child understand that you’ll leave them at nursery but assure them that you’ll always come back. It’s a good idea to practice with short separations to gradually get them used to being away from you. Always say goodbye to your child when you leave them at nursery. If they think you are just going to sneak off this will be more upsetting for them.  

Finally, be patient and supportive during the transition period. It’s normal for children to feel anxious or unsure when starting something new, so offer reassurance and plenty of hugs along the way.

Little Prodigies little-prodigies.com

Further reading: Nutritional therapist Alison Peacham on managing a fussy eater

Ask the Experts Feature Featured Little Prodigies nursery pre-prep