Getting ready for September back to nursery for the little ones

September creeps up on one faster than one thinks. One is busy savouring long afternoons in the park with ice creams dripping down tiny hands; the next one is labelling jumpers and searching for a missing shoe. For many parents, the beginning of September is the end of summer and the start of something new for their child called nursery.

The mix of excitement and nerves

There arises a whole gamut of feelings when thinking about one’s child being enrolled in a nursery. There is only pride and excitement seeing them grow and step into the bigger world. The only thing is that small wobble creeps in when you think about them entering a whole roomful of new faces. Children tend to mirror our emotions. So, to reassure children, keeping one’s own nerves at bay works wonders.

Creating a gentle transition

A daily routine holds everything. Simple things like having a nursery type schedule at home in the prior couple of weeks could have a major impact. Try starting bedtime a bit earlier, getting up early in the morning, and making little lunch boxes; all somewhat temporary measures to get them used to the changes. Starting a storybook on the idea of heading to nursery could spark discussions and give the child an idea about what to expect.

Building independence in small steps

Giving small opportunities for independence nurtures the confidence in children for nursery life. Let them handle shoe wearing, pouring drinks, or putting away toys themselves. These small milestones generate the feeling of being capable. By the time they enter nursery, they ought to have a basic handling feeling and, thus, should find the stay easier to bear.

A place to thrive

Choosing a nursery is different from mere convenience. It is about choosing one that nurtures a supportive environment for a baby to feel safe and encouraged to learn creatively through play. Creative spaces nurture kindness and ask questions that are friendly in the early steps to learning. For many families, nursery does not mark early childhood care; rather, it is the foundation of social and emotional development for a child.

Remembering it is a journey

There is usually a tearful first drop off, which is natural. Some children run in excitedly, while others hold on tightly for a bit longer. Trust the process, trust the nursery staff, and most importantly, trust that your child will adjust. Within a couple of weeks, more than likely, you will be there to see your child heading through the nursery doors in a hurry to meet up with their friends and begin fun activities.

September is always another time for a new start, not just for children but for parents as well. Watching your little one take these first steps reminds you how fast they grow and how many milestones there are on the road to greatness. Proper preparation and a soft mindset can turn the back to nursery move into a proud, exciting occasion with new adventures for the whole family.

Find out more about the supportive start offered at Armadillos Nursery.