How to make a smooth transition from home to nursery
I have carefully watched my daughter handle kids at her daycare center and also how she has skillfully managed to send her two kids to different nurseries without much fuss thereby ensuring a smooth transition from home to play school.
Here are few tips I have picked up from her:
- Talk first act afterwards
Toddlers are used to having a set routine and sending them off to a nursery is the first BIG change in their environment so it is best that you start talking about it as early as possible to make them used to the idea of a drastic change in their routine and environment.
- Dummy runs
Take your child to the nursery couple of times before you actually send him to the new environment. It will help him get used to the sight and sounds and will not be a ‘shock change’ on day one. Besides, it will give you an opportunity to talk to the staff and get queries answered.
- Be positive
Kids are very quick to pick up anxiety or stress from their parents. Maintain a cheerful look and keep smiling and be pleasant especially when saying goodbyes. Explain to them in the best possible way the fun things they will experience at the nursery – good toys, new friends and new exciting environment.
- Make goodbyes good and short
Saying goodbye can be hard and tough on both mother and child. Don’t linger and make the event difficult. A hug and kiss and quick getaway is the best possible way out. But be sure your kid understands that you will be back for him.
The staff is well trained to handle such parting situations so trust their experience and leave the tears and fears behind.
- Don’t play hide and seek
Once you have said your goodbyes leave the nursery as soon as possIt’se. Its not good to be lurking around in the corner and spying on your kid. If he sees you still hanging around it can be both confusing and distracting.
You can always call later and inquire how your kid is doing but never speak to him on the phone.
- Rest is best
Children need time to settle into a new routine, as do most adults. So make sure their weekends are relaxed with not too much action packed activities at least in the first few weeks. Make sure they get a good night rest before the start of the new week, preferably 10/12 hours so get them to bed early for a well-rested bright fresh morning!
- Feed right, eat right
Pack your kids tiffin with right foods, not chips and soft drinks. Some nurseries do not allow fast foods in their premises. And it is not just what you put in the tiffin box. Practice a regular healthy fresh food routine even at home and be the proper role model by not indulging in fatty unhealthy stuff yourself. Bad diet can affect not only his health but also play on his mood and behavior. Of course, the occasional ‘cheat day’ at fast foods outlets with play areas is okay.
- Recall the good times
It is a good practice to ask your kid how was his day at the nursery and instill positive thoughts and prepare them mentally for a better fun filled tomorrow.
Final tip: Finally be patient! The change of routine and environment can be a taxing time for both mother and child. Keeping a cool head and do not losing your composure is a sure and steady way of handling this first big change in your kid’s life. And remember the only constant thing is life is change.
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