Adjusting to the new routine of nursery can be challenging for lots of children (and parents)! However, there are some simple things you can try to help ease your little one in and make the transition less stressful and even get them to start enjoying nursery. To hear more about our nursery tips, keep on reading!
Why Is My Child Having A Hard Time?
It’s important to remember that if your child is finding it difficult with the transition to nursery, this is completely normal and you don’t need to worry. There could be a few reasons why your child is finding this change so hard and there are definitely ways that you can help them to adjust.
It is quite common for children to have some anxiety with unfamiliar surroundings as well as new people. New environments can even be overwhelming for adults, so it’s important to be mindful of your child’s feelings towards nursery or pre-school.
Being separated from a parent can also cause anxiety in your child, and although you may also find it difficult to be away from your child throughout the day, you will both adjust to your new routines in time.
How Can I Help?
A few ways that you can help your child to feel more settled and comfortable during their transition to nursery might include things like:
- Stay Calm At Drop Off – By not making a big fuss at drop off, it helps your child over time to realise that this new routine is totally normal, safe and not a big deal.
- Talk Positively About Nursery – Talking positively about nursery to your child will help give positive reinforcements and help to steer them away from associating negative thoughts with nursery.
- Brief Goodbyes – Keep your goodbye’s brief when dropping off your child. You can still make time to give a quick kiss and a goodbye, but generally speaking, the briefer the better, as it gives your child less time to get upset and worked up by you leaving.
- Listen To Your Child’s Feelings – Whether it’s simply asking how their day was, or checking in with them, letting your child vocalise their feelings and be heard is one of the best things you can do. It will help them to feel validated and comfortable talking to you about their emotions.
Things may take time, however, they will get easier. As your child starts adjusting, socialising, playing, learning and making friends, the days of wanting to stay at home are sure to be long gone.
Little Acorns Day Nursery
Here at Little Acorns Day Nursery, we offer a range of kid friendly activities and daycare options. Our childcare professionals are friendly and make a great team to help your little one adjust to nursery.
For more information, or to speak to our nursery staff directly, contact us today!