Dropping your child off at nursery for the first time – tips for parents

9th August 2018

Dropping your child off at nursery for the first time is something that every parent dreads because you’re undoubtedly worried about how they will get on. You might be wondering whether they will get on with other children, the staff and their new surroundings but this is where we come in. Tiny World Day Nurseries are here to help, we’ve seen nervous parents dropping their little ones off for the first time countless times over, so you need not worry because it’s our job to make them feel at home, ready to learn, play and make friends.

Research your nursery

If you’re more stressed than you are excited for your child to take their next big step into nursery, it’s time for you to do your research. Even if you’ve heard it from other parents just how difficult dropping your child off at nursery can be, start by doing the right thing: putting your mind at ease.

The first thing to do is to find the nursery that’s right for you, find out more about them and what they have to offer. Look for how much experience they have, whether they’re Ofsted registered, if their Nursery Nurses have Childcare qualifications and what their fun activities involve. Knowing more about your local nurseries will help you to make a decision on which one is the best fit for your child. At the end of the day, research will help you to discover a place where your child will learn to socialise, develop new skills and gain independence.

Make a checklist so your child has everything they need at nursery

Keeping organised is a good way to stay relaxed, if you’re worried about forgetting something that your child might need when they go to nursery, write a list. Do this a week before, so you have time to think of anything you may have missed off throughout the week. Be sure to pack this bag the night before, so you can spend some quality time in the morning with your child and keep the list at the front door – so you can do one last check before you leave.

Should I stay with my child for a while before leaving them at nursery?

Leave for the nursery in good time so that you can stay with them for a little time before you have to leave. Speak to their nursery nurses, this will help settle them down. You needn’t stay too long but for their reassurance and for peace of mind, stay for a short while if it makes the process just that bit easier.

What should I do if my child cries?

It’s normal for children to cry when you leave but that does not mean that they’re upset about being at nursery, it means that they are just sad that you are leaving. Should your child begin to cry once you’ve said your goodbyes, it’s important to stay strong and leave because once you leave, they will be able to quickly settle into an activity that will keep them occupied. After a couple of weeks at nursery, they will learn that you’re coming back after a period of time and the crying will become much less and maybe even stop altogether.

Come to Tiny World today for a free place for your 2,3 or 4 year old, we have been caring for babies and children for over 30 years and all of our nursery nurses have recognised Childcare qualifications – so you know you’re in good hands. For more information or to take a tour of our nurseries – give us a call today. We can be found around Nottingham and Mansfield on Stockhill Lane, Arnold Road and Layton Avenue.