Starting nursery is a big milestone for children and parents alike. A few tears in the early days are completely normal and rarely last long. With a little preparation and patience, most children settle happily within a few weeks. Here’s a gentle, practical guide to help.

Before they start

• Talk about nursery positively and often, so it feels familiar and exciting rather than unknown.
• Read picture books about starting nursery together.
• Practise short separations with a trusted grandparent or friend.
• Visit the nursery beforehand if you can, so the building and faces aren’t brand new on day one.

Managing the goodbye

Goodbyes are often the hardest part for you as much as your child. Keep them short, warm, and confident. A quick cuddle, a cheerful “I’ll see you after lunch,” and then go. Lingering or sneaking away can make children more anxious; a calm, predictable goodbye helps them trust that you always come back. And you can be sure the staff will comfort and distract a tearful child the moment you’ve gone, the tears usually stop within minutes.

Build a gentle routine

Young children feel safe with predictability. Try to keep mornings calm and unrushed, with the same order of events each day. A consistent bedtime and a good night’s sleep make an enormous difference to how a child copes with a busy new environment.

Give it time

Every child settles at their own pace. Some skip in from day one; others take a few weeks to feel at home. Both are completely normal. Trust the process, stay in touch with your child’s teachers, and celebrate the small wins – the first painting proudly brought home, the first friend’s name mentioned at dinner.

How we help at Annemount

We settle each child gently and individually, at a pace that suits them, with flexible starting options and staff who make it their job to help every new child feel secure and happy. You won’t be doing this alone we’re with you every step of the way.

Have questions about starting nursery? We’re always happy to talk, get in touch or book a visit.