The transition from home to nursery school can be a daunting experience for both children and their parents. While some children may have experienced an Early Years setting before, for many starting at Smart Kids International Pre School, this will be the first time they are separated from their parents. We understand the challenges this transition can bring, so we have developed a number of strategies to support your child during this process…
Nursery School Induction Visit
The term before your child starts with us, they are invited for an induction visit. This half-hour session is an opportunity for your child to explore the setting with you, enjoy the variety of toys and activities on offer, and meet their key teacher. This initial visit helps to familiarise your child with the new environment and the people they will be interacting with.
Welcome Pack
Before your child starts with us, we will send over a ‘welcome pack’. This pack includes photographs of the setting, along with pictures of your child’s key teacher and other members of staff. We also provide contact details of the other children in the class, giving you the opportunity to organise playdates. These play dates can significantly aid your child’s transition by allowing them to form friendships before starting nursery school.
Home Visit
A few days before your child’s start date, your child’s key teacher, along with another member of staff, will conduct a Home Visit. These visits help the child, family, and teachers get to know each other in the home environment where the child usually feels most relaxed. We aim to establish a partnership between parents/carers and staff, sharing knowledge and understanding of the child. This allows us to plan stimulating and challenging learning opportunities at school and meet each child’s individual needs. Above all, Home Visits help build the child’s trust and confidence.
During the visit, we will go through an “All About Me” questionnaire. This helps give the teachers an insight into your child’s personality and development. The Home Visit also provides an opportunity for you to share any concerns or ask any additional questions you may have.
Staggered Start Times
To help ensure a smooth settling-in process, we stagger the children’s nursery school start times. This allows the key teacher to spend quality time with each child starting in their group, helping them to feel more comfortable and secure in their new environment.
Stay and Play Session
On your child’s first day at nursery school, known as the ‘stay and play’ session, your child will stay for half an hour along with one of their primary caregivers. This allows each child to feel more confident in an unfamiliar setting and helps them adapt more readily and feel safe in their new environment.
Gradual Increase in Session Length
The following session will usually be for one hour, and we will encourage the parent/ carer to leave once their child is settled. The length of the sessions thereafter will depend on how your child has found the first two mornings with us. This gradual increase in session length helps your child adjust at their own pace.
Parental Reassurance
Parents can sometimes feel a little anxious about leaving their little one for the first time. This is entirely normal, but rest assured, your child is in safe hands. We will contact you straight away if there are any concerns. Your child is going to have a wonderful time with us!
By following these steps, we aim to make the transition from home to nursery school as smooth and comfortable as possible for both you and your child. At Smart Kids International Pre School, we are committed to providing a nurturing and supportive environment where your child can thrive.
