Starting nursery is a big moment, for both children and parents. Even when you’ve had a lovely showround and met the team, it’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and worry as you start preparing for the first day of nursery. The good news is that there are lots of small, simple ways to make the transition smooth and positive for everyone.
Building familiarity before the first day
Before your child’s official start, you’ll be invited to two Stay and Play sessions at Blue Windmill. These gentle introductions help your child get used to the environment, the staff, and the routines of the day. You’re welcome to stay nearby — or, if your child is comfortable, you can let them explore without you for a little while.
Children feel more at ease when things look and sound familiar. You might like to talk together about what you saw on your visit — “Do you remember the garden with the little bridge?” or “You’ll see your key person, Sam, again today.” These small reminders help connect the new experience with something already known.
Sharing important information
Part of the transition process involves completing the All About Me form and sharing any details about your child’s health or food allergies. These forms help us get to know your child as an individual — their favourite toys, comfort items, sleep routines, or words they use for familiar things.
When parents and practitioners share what works best at home, we can mirror that in nursery to help your child feel secure and understood from the start.
Creating a calm goodbye
The first few drop-offs can sometimes feel emotional — for parents as much as children. The most helpful thing you can do is keep goodbyes calm, warm, and brief. Children quickly learn that nursery is a safe, happy place when goodbyes follow a predictable pattern: coat on, hug, wave, door.
If your child becomes upset, our staff are there to comfort and reassure them straight away. We’ll let you know how they settle, but it’s often surprising how quickly children calm once they start to play. Knowing that their parent trusts the staff makes the biggest difference.
The importance of routine
Children thrive on routine because it helps them predict what comes next. Keeping morning routines steady — breakfast, getting dressed, same route to nursery — gives your child a sense of control and calm.
At Blue Windmill, our days follow a gentle rhythm of play, mealtimes, rest and outdoor exploration, so children quickly learn to feel at home.
When things take time
Every child’s adjustment is unique. Some skip happily through the door from day one; others need a little longer to build confidence. Both are perfectly normal. What matters is that children feel safe, cared for and gradually more independent — and that parents feel supported through that process too.
Our team will always take time to talk through how your child is settling and to work with you if they need a little extra reassurance.
A few simple things that help to prepare for nursery
- Talk about nursery positively. Use familiar names and highlight what they’ll enjoy — “You’ll see Sam and your friends again today.”
- Bring a comfort item such as a small blanket or soft toy if it helps your child feel secure.
- Allow time for goodbyes. Rushing can increase anxiety for both of you.
- Trust the staff. Once you’ve handed over, give your child space to settle. We’ll always call if we need you.
- Keep routines consistent. A calm start at home sets the tone for a calm day.
A gentle beginning
Starting nursery is the beginning of a new rhythm — one that builds confidence, friendships and independence. With a little preparation and steady routines, your child will soon recognise Blue Windmill as their own special place.