For a child, starting nursery school is a huge step and a learning experience. They will go from being in your company to a completely different environment surrounded by lots of new faces. However, once settled in they should thoroughly enjoy themselves. They will have the chance to make new friends and have fun. To prepare them ahead of their first day and make the transition as smooth as possible, we have some tips below from a pre prep school in Gloucestershire.
Arrange Playdates
Playdates are an excellent way that you can get your child used to being around others. It will give them a chance to meet children at a similar age and develop social skills.
Get Them into The Routine
Their routine will change quite significantly as they will need to sleep and wake up early. Before they are set to start, we recommend gradually adjusting their sleep pattern so that they are all set and on time for their first day.
Take Your Child to Open Day Events
To help them familiarise the new environment, you may also take your little one along with you to open day events where they can explore what will be their classroom and playgrounds.
Expect Nerves
Nerves are natural and should start to fade once your child has fully adjusted. What you can do to minimise them is talk about how exciting the move will be, which will boost their excitement, and talk about what they can expect from the school day. Youmay do a little role play where you instruct them to do different tasks, like put away their toys and hang their coat up for example.
Practise Saying Goodbye
Saying goodbye at drop off is possibly the most difficult part but it is something you can practise for by again having playdates and helping your child adjust to being around others.
These are just a few general tips for parents. If there is anything that you are concerned about with regards to your child starting nursery, we would recommend speaking to their teachers who can offer their professional advice and arrange any support necessary.
