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Good Practice: Ask The Experts - Help children settle into nursery

3 mins read
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I manage a nursery and want to update our approach to settling in new children. Any advice?

Settling a new child can be challenging yet getting it right reduces stress and anxiety and contributes to the long-term success of a placement.

Allocate a key person to be the bridge into the nursery and find out as much as you can about children and families such as whether a child has been left before, is used to having adults around, attended another setting, likes and dislikes. A one-size-fits-all approach does not work.

Settling in can take time. Start by getting parents to lead play with the key worker joining in. Gradually parents should move to the edge of the room then pop out for a short while. This period is extended until a child has adapted. Soothe parents' anxiety with a quick phone call or email and make children feel at home with a family display featuring photos and stories. Host a workshop for parents on settling in if lots of new children are joining the nursery.

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