Starting Nursery: What to Expect in the First Few Weeks

Sending your child to nursery for the first time is a huge milestone – for them and you. Along with the excitement of a new chapter, it’s perfectly okay to feel a bit worried about how your little one will adjust, what their day will involve, and how quickly they'll stop crying when you leave. 

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The good news is, with preparation and support, many children gradually become comfortable with nursery life. Here, at Little Mowgli nursery and preschool in Leyland, we know starting nursery is a big deal, so we’ve put together everything you need to know about what to expect during the first few weeks.

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Whether you want to know more about settling-in sessions, key persons or just day-to-day life at nursery, we’re here to answer all your questions. After all, the more prepared you both feel, the less daunting the big day will seem!

Before Your Child Starts Nursery:  

Many nurseries will arrange a meeting, visit, or settling-in opportunities before your child’s first day. Use this opportunity to tell your child’s key person about their routines, favourite toys, comforters, likes and dislikes, and any allergies or medical needs they may have. The more familiar your nursery team are with your child before day one, the quicker they’ll feel at home.

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Talk positively about nursery when preparing your child for their first day, read books about nursery together, and pack their bag with a comforter, spare clothes, and their name clearly displayed. Some nurseries also offer a stay-and-play session before starting nursery, where your child can look around the setting with you before starting their sessions.

What Happens During Settling-In Sessions? 

Settling- in sessions are typically short visits that occur prior to your child’s official starting date. They allow your child to familiarise themselves with their new environment, teachers and peers while you stay close by. Some nurseries offer short settling-in sessions, gradually increasing the time your child spends there. 

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These initial settling-in sessions, while perhaps seeming minor, are crucial for your child to familiarise themselves with their new surroundings in a way that suits them best, independently. Your key person will also learn about your child before you’re no longer around to explain them yourself.

Get To Know Your Child’s Key Person: 

Under the EYFS framework, every child must be assigned a specific key person; a named staff member who will be your child's go-to person for building a settled, trusting relationship with your child and learning about your family too. Your key person will support your child to feel familiar with nursery routines, ensure their care is personalised to your child’s individual needs, and act as your main point of contact.

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Meeting your nursery’s key person during settling-in sessions and keeping the communication open once your child starts is invaluable for settling your child. 

The First Few Drop-Offs: Tears, Clinginess and Goodbyes

Even if your child loved their settling-in sessions, it’s completely normal for them to cry, be clingy or protest when you drop them off at nursery. Starting nursery is a big change for little ones, and it’s unlikely they’ll take to it instantly. 

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Saying a quick, warm, and confident goodbye rather than a long and drawn-out one will help your child settle quicker once you’ve left. Their key person will be experienced in dealing with upset children and know how to comfort them until they feel better.

What Will My Child Do at Nursery?

Throughout the day, children will engage in both independent and guided activities designed to cover all seven EYFS learning areas. From communication, physical development and literacy to mathematics, creativity and problem-solving, there are plenty of activities to stimulate your child’s development. Children will spend their time between independent and group activities, story-time, singing, snack times and outdoor play, with plenty of choice built into the day.

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With babies and toddlers, routines tend to be more flexible, adapting to their individual needs and preferences for playing, eating, and sleeping, rather than adhering to a predetermined schedule. 

Eating, Drinking and Nap Times: 

During the first few weeks, your nursery will do its best to stick to your child's usual feeding and sleeping times, gradually shifting mealtimes, snacks and nap times rather than all at once. Share with your key person what times your child usually eats and sleeps at home, as well as any allergies or dietary needs, and how your child falls asleep. 

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Meals and naps may be unsettled during your child’s first few weeks as they get used to a new environment and different faces around them. This usually improves as your child eventually adjusts to his new environment at the nursery. 

Why Your Child May Be Different at Home?

Children may seem more tired, clingy or upset than usual when they’re home at first. This is completely normal and often means your little one has had a busy day concentrating, socialising and exploring and finally feels safe enough to let go once they’re back with you. This doesn’t mean that your child isn’t settling in OK; in fact, it’s usually the opposite; that home remains your child's safest, most trusted place to be fully themselves. 

How Long Does It Take to Settle Into Nursery? 

Whilst every child is different, most children will begin to settle into a routine within two to six weeks. Signs your child is settling include shorter tearful goodbyes, getting involved with activities and playing with other children, and returning to their normal eating and sleeping patterns. 

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It’s normal for children to have what we call a ‘wobble’ after an illness or holiday. Don’t worry – this is normal and doesn’t mean that your child is suddenly not settling! Try not to compare your child’s progress with another child’s, as each child is different, even within the same family. 

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For a closer look at what shapes that pace, our guide on how long it takes a child to settle into nursery goes into more detail. 

What Can Parents Do To Help? 

It's best to offer a short, loving farewell, even when it feels incredibly difficult. A predictable morning routine, coupled with arriving with ample time so you're not hurried, will contribute to your child's sense of security. Some parents find it useful to introduce a little goodbye ritual; a secret handshake or wave. This helps your child know what to expect each morning. 

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Speak positively about nursery to your child, stay in touch with their key person and being patient for a few difficult mornings will all make a real difference. Try not to sneak off without saying goodbye, as this can cause more anxiety long-term.

What Should Parents Expect From Their Nursery? 

Having an established settling-in process tailored to your child’s needs, regular updates from your nursery’s staff about how your child is doing and learning, and open communication between you and your nursery. 

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Nurseries will often provide updates on what your child did during the day through pictures and a daily summary or online learning journal. This helps you stay involved in your child’s education and life at nursery, even when you’re away.

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Don't hesitate to ask questions, bring up any concerns, or request further settling-in sessions should you feel your child needs them. 

Starting Nursery at Little Mowgli in Leyland: 

We understand starting nursery is a big step for your family. That’s why we offer flexible settling arrangements tailored to your child’s individual needs, not the calendar. Your child will be assigned a key person who they build a relationship with before their start date and throughout their time with us. 

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Our team at Little Mowgli in Leyland are experienced and friendly and are always happy to answer questions or share how your child’s day has gone, and adjust our approach to help your child settle in confidently and happily.

FAQs:

1 - How Many Settling-In Sessions Will My Child Have?

This depends on both the nursery and your child. Some children require no more than one or two settling-in sessions, whereas others benefit from several more. If your child needs more time to adjust and settle, additional sessions may be made available.

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2 - Is It Normal For My Child To Cry At Drop-Off Every Day?

Yes!  Particularly during the first few weeks, it’s normal for children to cry at drop-off as they’re adjusting to lots of big changes. 

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3 - What Should I Pack For My Child’s First Day? 

To keep things simple, pack your child’s bag the night before containing their spare clothes, nappies/pull-ups, comforter and anything else their key person has requested. 

Final Thoughts: 

Starting nursery can surely feel like an emotional rollercoaster for the first few weeks for both the child and the parents alike, but it doesn’t last forever. With patience, consistency, and a strong relationship with your child’s key person, your child will settle in confidently and happily, in no time. 

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Want to know more about starting nursery at Little Mowgli in Leyland? Get in touch with our team today and book yourself in for a visit to see our amazing setting for yourself.