HOW TO PREPARE YOUR CHILD FOR THE NURSERY

Emotional Preparation and Gentle Separation:
A Montessori Approach

Starting nursery is a significant milestone for both children and parents. At Great Minds Nursery, we understand that this transition can bring a mix of excitement, anxiety, and big emotions. Preparing your child emotionally for nursery, especially for those first few drop-offs, can make all the difference in creating a positive and nurturing start to their early education journey.

Understanding Separation Through a Montessori Lens

The Montessori approach is rooted in respect for the child’s development and emotional well-being. At its heart, it recognizes the importance of secure attachment and independence. When a child begins nursery, they are not just entering a new space — they are taking an important step toward becoming confident, capable individuals. According to developmental psychology, young children thrive on routine, predictability, and connection. For many, separation from parents can be emotionally challenging at first.

However, with gentle guidance and a supportive environment, children can learn to trust new caregivers and feel safe exploring the world beyond home.

Tips to Emotionally Prepare Your Child

  1. Talk About Nursery positively
    Begin introducing the idea of nursery in casual, joyful conversations. Use phrases like “Your nursery is a place where children play, learn, and make friends!” Avoid expressing your own anxiety, as children are sensitive to their parents’ emotions.
  2. Visit the Nursery Together
    Please arrange for a short visits before the first day. Familiarizing your child with the classroom, teachers, and routines can reduce fear of the unknown.
  3. Read Books About Starting Nursery
    There are many excellent picture books that help children understand what to expect. Look for stories that emphasize feelings, friendships, and routines.
  4. Practice Saying Goodbye
    5. Role-play the drop-off routine at home. Use dolls or pretend play to act out the morning routine, saying goodbye, and being picked up again — reinforcing the idea that parents always return.

Supporting Your Child at Drop-Off

  1. Establish a Consistent Routine
    Children find security in routines. Arrive at the nursery around the same time each day and follow a simple goodbye ritual. This predictability helps your child feel in control.
  2. Keep Goodbyes Brief and Positive
    Lingering can make separation harder. A warm hug, a confident “I love you, see you soon!” and then leaving promptly is often the best approach.
  3. Trust the Process
    It’s natural for children to cry at drop-off during the early days. Trust that the nurturing environment at Great Minds Nursery supports children through this transition with empathy and care.
  4. Communicate with the Nursery Team
    Our trained Montessori educators are here to support both children and parents. Sharing your concerns, asking questions, and staying in touch helps build a collaborative and trusting relationship.

What to remember

Preparing your child emotionally for nursery is a gentle, gradual process. With patience, empathy, and support from our dedicated team at Great Minds Nursery, your child can grow into this new chapter with confidence. As Maria Montessori said, “The greatest gifts we can give our children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence.”

Great Minds ECC Team

Ready to Enrol?

Our school admission is open year round, and we welcome students from 1 year old up to 6 years old (FS2 or KG1). All students are accepted as long as the environment is suitable and meets their individual needs. Still not sure? Contact us to book a free school tour.
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