Parent Handbook

Settling in – what to expect

Although this is an exciting time, the transition from home to nursery can be challenging for children when they first start. You can anticipate change in mood and behaviour; sleep and appetite can be affected too. This stage typically lasts 1-4 weeks. As a parent, it’s natural to feel concerned and wonder how you can support your child during this important period of their life.  We offer some valuable tips to help your child settle with ease, fostering a positive and comfortable experience for both yourself and your child.

Before the first day

Your class teacher will contact you to discuss the arrangements for the first day and ask you to share your child’s relevant information. Share any pertinent information about likes, dislikes, interests, or any specific needs they may have. This will help our team in understanding your child better to help them settle in and tailor activities to their individual preferences, when possible. Talk with your child about starting preschool and show them pictures.

Introduce a familiar routine with mealtimes and nap times, similar to the schedule they will follow at ICCC (arrival by 9.15am, lunch at 12pm, nap time 12.45pm, afternoon snack 3pm). This routine will help your child adjust more easily to the environment of the nursery.

Encourage your child’s independence in daily activities like dressing themselves, using the bathroom, or carrying their bag. This will boost their confidence and make them feel more capable in the nursery setting.

The first weeks

A gradual introduction will enable your child to become familiar with the routine, environment, and staff, minimizing any overwhelming feelings.

Day 1: On the first day, we invite one parent to stay with their child during the morning, typically for one or two hours before lunch. Your child ca explore the environment and interact with other children and staff while you are nearby. This helps reduces anxiety, and supports a smoother transition in the following days when they begin attending independently.

Day 2-5: The child spends between 1 and 2 hours at nursery without a parent or caregiver. The teachers will monitor closely the child and each day plan the schedule for the next.

After the first week, we will discuss if the child is ready to extend the stay to include lunch, and gradually full days after the first few weeks.

What you need to bring:

• Indoor shoes and a bag with change clothes which will stay at school. If the child is on diapers, you should bring a supply of diapers and wet wipes.
• Optional – comfort object or blanket, especially for nap time; pajamas for children on full day schedule.