Settling In
At Cherry Lodge Childcare, we understand that starting nursery is a significant milestone for both you and your child. Our goal is to make this transition as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Our tailored settling-in sessions are designed to help your child become comfortable in their new environment, ensuring they feel safe, secure, and ready to embark on their learning journey.
Our Settling-In Sessions
We offer complimentary settling-in sessions that can commence up to six weeks before your child’s official start date. These sessions provide ample time for your child to familiarise themselves with our nursery, staff, and daily routines. We recognise the importance of strong relationships in a child’s life for their well-being and development. Our dedicated Key Person approach ensures your child forms a secure attachment with a specific caregiver, creating a foundation for exploration and growth.
How It Works
To begin, schedule a settling-in session with our nursery manager at a convenient time. We encourage you to stay with your child during these initial visits to provide comfort and support. As the sessions progress, and with guidance from your child’s Key Person, you can gradually spend short periods away, helping your child build confidence in your return. We tailor this process to meet the unique needs of each child and family, understanding that some children may settle quickly, while others require more time.
These sessions focus on building relationships through play and shared experiences, fostering strong bonds that ease the transition into nursery life. This is also an opportunity for you to ask questions, observe daily activities, and engage with our team. We value insights into your child’s routines, preferences, and any special comforts they may have, enabling us to provide personalised care from the outset.
What to bring
We recommend bringing a spare set of clothes and a comforting item from home, such as a favorite blanket or toy. Some parents find that including an item with a familiar scent, like a piece of clothing, can reassure their child during the separation periods.
Top Tips for Settling In
Don’t hesitate to share your concerns or ask questions—our nursery team is here to help. Open communication with your child’s Key Person ensures everyone is on the same page, paving the way for a smooth transition.
Settling in may not be flawless, and that’s okay. With good communication, an experienced nursery team, and a trusting relationship with your Key Person, your child will adjust in their own time.
Crying is normal during the early stages of separation and often a child’s way of expressing reluctance to part from you. Trust that separation anxiety, while difficult, is part of a healthy adjustment process and doesn’t mean anything is wrong.
Our nursery staff have guided many families through this journey. Their experience and insight can make all the difference, so lean on their expertise. By working together, we can find the best approach for your child.
Children are incredibly perceptive, so your demeanor can set the tone. Show confidence and smile when saying goodbye, even if it’s hard. Remember, you’ve chosen the nursery to help your child thrive through new experiences, friendships, and learning opportunities.
Let us know about your child’s interests, favourite toys, or comfort items. This helps us create an environment where they feel safe and comfortable.