Blog · 3 October 2026

Settling in: helping your child through the first weeks

The first weeks at nursery are a big change for a young child, and often for their parents too. Tears at the door are normal and usually pass. A little planning makes the transition gentler for everyone.

Start with short visits

If you can, begin with short visits before your child stays for a full session. A first visit with you in the room, then a short time apart, then a little longer, lets your child learn that the new place is safe and that you always come back.

Keep goodbyes short and the same every time

A clear, warm goodbye works better than slipping away or lingering. Choose a simple routine, such as a hug, a wave at the window and “I will see you after snack”, and repeat it every day. Predictable goodbyes help children feel in control.

Bring a little of home

A favourite soft toy, a family photo or a parent’s scarf can be a comfort in the first weeks. Familiar smells and objects help children feel connected to home while they get to know new people.

A key person

Under the Early Years Foundation Stage, every child has a key person: one adult who gets to know them especially well, helps them settle and is your main point of contact. Children who have one trusted adult to return to tend to feel secure enough to explore.

Keep the rest of life steady

Try to keep sleep, meals and evenings as familiar as possible while your child adjusts. Tired children find change harder, which is one reason we value good rest. There is more in rest is part of learning.

Stay in touch

Ask how your child’s day went, and look for photos and notes from the nursery. At evergreen we share updates through our parent app, so you can see what your child is exploring and talk about it at home.

If your child is unsettled at home

Some children hold it together at nursery and let their feelings out at home: clinginess at bedtime, tears over small things or tiredness in the evenings. This is a normal part of adjusting to a new place. Extra cuddles, early nights and a calm, predictable evening routine help. If anything worries you, talk to your child’s key person. Small changes, such as a shorter day for a week, can make a big difference.

Give it time

Most children settle within a few weeks, though every child is different. Some cry for the first few mornings and then run in happily. Others are fine at first and wobble later. Both are normal.

If you are thinking about starting, we are happy to talk through settling in on a visit. Book a tour.