7 tips for a calm first week at nursery
By Ms. Soha El-Mansouri
The first week can be hard on children and parents alike. Here are simple steps that make the transition easier and calmer.
Separating from mum or dad in the first days is natural, and a child’s tears don’t mean the decision was wrong. These tips have worked with hundreds of families.
Before you start
- Visit the nursery with your child a week before the first day.
- Gradually adjust sleep and wake-up times.
- Talk about nursery in a simple, positive way.
In the first days
- Keep goodbyes short, consistent and smiling.
- Bring a favourite toy or a familiar piece of cloth.
- Never sneak away without saying goodbye; it weakens trust.
- Ask the teacher about the day and celebrate their small wins.
In time the door becomes a source of excitement rather than fear, and tears turn into running towards friends.