- by Admin
Why Settling-In Sessions Matter: Helping Your Child Feel Comfortable in Nursery
Starting nursery is a big milestone for both children and parents. Settling-in sessions give little ones the time, space, and confidence to adjust to a new environment at their own pace, surrounded by caring support. For parents, it brings peace of mind, knowing their child feels safe, happy, and ready to begin this exciting new chapter.
In this blog, we’ll understand why settling-in sessions matter and how they help your child feel comfortable and confident from day one.
How Wimbledon Day Nursery Eases the Transition
At Wimbledon Day Nursery, we know every child settles in differently. That’s why our journey begins with a home visit from a member of our management team and your child’s key person. This first step helps your child feel safe and recognised in their own environment before ever stepping into nursery.
Once your child feels familiar with their key person, they begin short settling-in sessions at nursery, designed to help them build confidence and trust in their new surroundings.
What Happens During Settling-In Sessions?
Settling-in sessions are short, flexible visits where your child gradually gets used to nursery routines and faces. Your child’s key person will be there every step of the way, ensuring a calm, nurturing introduction.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes these sessions so important for both children and parents.
Creating Comfort and Connection
The early sessions focus on play, gentle routines, and lots of reassurance. Children begin to recognise their carers, engage with the space confidently, and feel secure knowing a familiar adult is always nearby.
Building Trust Through Familiar Faces
Because your child’s key person has already spent time with them at home, their first moments at nursery feel familiar and reassuring. That early connection gently blossoms into trust, becoming the heart of your child’s emotional wellbeing and the start of a happy learning journey.
Supporting Parents During the Settling-In Period
We know that the first day at nursery can feel just as emotional for parents as for children. Our team stays in close touch throughout this time, and you’re always welcome to call and check how your little one is doing.
We also share daily updates about naps, meals, and play, helping you feel involved and reassured every step of the way.
Why These Early Steps Matter
Research shows that children who form secure attachments in early settings adapt more confidently and show stronger emotional development. At Wimbledon Day Nursery, we take pride in making every child’s start positive, patient, and extremely personal.
Begin Your Child’s Journey with Wimbledon Day Nursery
If you’re searching for a nursery in Wimbledon that values emotional care as much as education, choose one that takes time to understand your child from day one.
Enrol your child at Wimbledon Day Nursery today and give them the confident, happy start they deserve — contact us today to learn more and secure your child’s place.
FAQs
Q1. What happens during the home visit before my child starts nursery?
A member of our management team and your child’s key person visit you at home to get to know your child in a familiar, comfortable space. It’s a calm way to build trust and talk about your child’s routines, interests, and any special needs before their first nursery visit.
Q2. How many settling-in sessions will my child need at nursery?
There’s no fixed number; every child is different. Most children have around two to five short sessions, but we’ll always adapt this based on your child’s comfort and readiness. The goal is to make their transition smooth, not rushed.
Q3. Can I stay with my child during the first settling-in session?
Yes, absolutely. We encourage parents to stay for the first session or two so your child feels secure. Once they’re comfortable, we’ll gently encourage independence while keeping communication open with you.
Q4. What if my child struggles to settle in?
That’s completely okay; it’s very common. Your child’s key person will work closely with you to adjust the pace, offer extra reassurance, and make small changes to help your child feel safe and happy. You can call the nursery anytime for updates during this stage.
Q5. How will I know how my child is doing during the settling-in period?
Our team keeps you fully informed. For children under two and a half, we provide a daily report sheet covering meals, naps, and activities. For older children, you’ll receive verbal feedback and regular updates on how they’re adapting.