Starting nursery can be a challenging time for both children and their parents. Separation anxiety is a common issue that can make nursery drop-offs stressful. However, with the right strategies, Early Years settings can help ease this transition and make the experience positive for everyone involved. This blog provides practical advice for nursery practitioners on how to help children settle in and offers tips for nurseries to support parents in managing nursery drop-off anxiety.
Helping Children Settle In
1. Gradual Introduction
Introduce children to the nursery environment gradually. This can involve short visits with parents before the official start date, allowing children to familiarise themselves with the setting and staff. A gradual introduction helps reduce the shock of separation and builds a sense of security.
2. Consistent Routines
Establish and maintain consistent daily routines. Predictability helps children feel secure and understand what to expect. Morning rituals, such as a specific greeting or a favourite activity, can make the transition smoother.
3. Personalised Comfort Items
Encourage children to bring a comfort item from home, such as a favourite toy or blanket. These items provide a sense of familiarity and comfort in a new environment, helping to ease anxiety.
4. Warm and Welcoming Environment
Create a warm and welcoming environment in the nursery. This includes having friendly, approachable staff who greet each child with a smile and a personal welcome. A positive atmosphere can significantly reduce anxiety and help children feel more at ease once they have been dropped off at the nursery.
5. Engaging Activities
Have engaging and enjoyable activities ready for children upon arrival. Fun, stimulating activities can distract children from the separation and make them excited to start their day at nursery.
6. Key Person System
Implement a key person system where each child has a designated staff member they can form a strong bond with. This key person can provide extra support and attention, making the child feel safe and cared for.
Supporting Parents During Drop-Off
Starting nursery can be as stressful an experience for parents as it can for the children. Making sure to support both parents and children can make the experience much easier to manage. Here are some ways you can support parents during nursery drop-off:
1. Open Communication
Maintain open lines of communication with parents. Encourage them to share any concerns or anxieties they may have about the drop-off process.
2. Drop-Off Routines
Encourage parents to develop a consistent drop-off routine. A quick, positive goodbye ritual can help children understand that saying goodbye is a normal part of the day and that their parents will return.
3. Stay Positive
Advise parents to stay positive and confident during drop-off. Children can pick up on their parents’ emotions, and a calm, reassuring demeanour can help ease the child’s anxiety.
4. Share Strategies
Provide parents with strategies to help their child cope with separation anxiety. This can include practising short separations at home, gradually increasing the time apart, and reinforcing the idea that nursery is a fun and safe place.
5. Parent Meetings
Organise regular parent meetings to discuss separation anxiety and share experiences. This creates a support network where parents can exchange tips and feel reassured that they are not alone in facing these challenges.
6. Update on Progress
Keep parents informed about their child’s progress throughout the day. Sending pictures, videos, or brief updates can reassure parents that their child is settling in well and enjoying their time at nursery.
A great way to do this is through eyfs online learning journals such as eylog. By using an app, practitioners can update parents about their child’s day as it happens, rather than giving them all the information at pick-up. This can help put parent’s minds at ease that their child is getting on okay at nursery.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Drop-Off
1. Arrival Time
Encourage parents to arrive at a consistent time each day. Predictability can help children feel more secure and reduce anxiety.
2. Quick Goodbyes
Advise parents to keep goodbyes short and sweet. Lingering can prolong the anxiety and make separation harder for both the child and the parent.
3. Positive Reinforcement
Use positive reinforcement to encourage children when they handle drop-offs well. Praising their bravery and rewarding them with a small treat or sticker can motivate them to continue improving.
4. Staff Support
Ensure that staff are available to provide extra support during drop-off times. A friendly, familiar face can make a significant difference in easing a child’s anxiety.
5. Routine Check-Ins
Have regular check-ins with parents to discuss their child’s progress and any ongoing issues. This allows for continuous support and adjustment of strategies as needed.
Supporting Happy and Confident Drop-Offs
Easing nursery drop-off anxiety requires a collaborative effort between nursery staff and parents. By implementing these strategies, Early Years settings can create a nurturing environment that helps children feel safe and supported, while also providing parents with the confidence that their child is in good hands. With patience, consistency, and open communication, the transition to nursery can become a positive experience for everyone involved.
