Blogs

Five Tips to Help Your Toddler Settle into Nursery

March 2025

Starting nursery is an exciting milestone for toddlers and parents.

For children attending a British curriculum nursery, the transition lays the foundation for early learning and independence. Here are five tips to help your child settle into this new environment:

Establish a Consistent Routine

Building a daily routine at home can help your child adapt. Consistent wake-up times, meals, and bedtime routines create a sense of security and prepare them for the nursery’s schedule.

Talk Positively About Nursery

Introduce your child to the idea of nursery by discussing the fun activities they will enjoy, such as storytelling, outdoor play, and arts and crafts. Explain how these align with what they’ll experience at a nursery, where learning through play fosters essential skills.

Visit the Nursery Together

Before starting, visit the nursery with your child to explore the space, meet the teachers, and understand the daily routine. At GEMS FirstPoint School in Dubailand, we follow the British Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum with a Reggio Emilia philosophy, providing a warm and engaging environment that encourages curiosity and confidence.

Introduce Familiar Comfort Items

Bringing a comfort item like a blanket or favourite toy can help your child feel secure in a new setting. This small piece of home can provide reassurance as they adjust to the nursery experience.

Be Patient and Encouraging

Each child adjusts at their own pace. Offer plenty of encouragement and praise as they navigate this transition. Celebrate small achievements, like participating in group play or learning a new song.

At GEMS FirstPoint School in Dubailand, Dubai, our dedicated team of British-trained Early Years teachers provide a safe and nurturing environment for your child to take their first steps into their educational journey. Delivered through a combination of the Reggio Emilia philosophy and the British Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, children are encouraged to take risks, problem solve, think critically, and have endless fun.

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