Your child's first day at nursery is a big moment for the whole family. With a little preparation it can be a calm, happy start, and here is exactly how to get it right.
1Why the First Day Feels So Big
Your child's first day at nursery is a milestone for the whole family. It is completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and worry, and to wonder how your little one will cope without you. The good news is that with a little preparation, most children settle far more quickly than parents expect, and the first day soon becomes the start of something they genuinely look forward to.
2Start with Settling-In Visits
The single best thing you can do is take up every settling-in session your nursery offers. At HPDN, new children visit with a parent first, then build up to short solo sessions before their first full day. These gentle steps let your child get to know their key worker, their room and the daily routine while you are still close by, so the first full day feels familiar rather than frightening.
3Build a Short, Confident Goodbye
Children take their emotional cues from us. A long, anxious goodbye can unsettle a child far more than a short, cheerful one. Agree a simple goodbye routine, perhaps a hug, a wave at the window and the same reassuring phrase each time, then hand over to their key worker and go. It sounds counterintuitive, but a calm, brief goodbye helps your child settle faster.
4What to Pack and Prepare
Label everything clearly and pack spare clothes, any comfort item your child relies on, nappies or pull-ups if needed, and details of feeds or milk for younger children. Dress your child in comfortable, washable clothes they can play messily in. Talk to your key worker about your child's routine, likes, dislikes and any dietary or medical needs so the team can care for them exactly as you would at home.
5Handling the Emotions on the Day
Some children walk in without a backward glance, others cry at drop-off, and both are completely normal. If there are tears, trust that they usually stop within minutes of you leaving. You are always welcome to phone and check in, and at HPDN we happily share photos and updates through our online learning journal so you can see your child happy and busy during the day.
6How HPDN Welcomes Every New Starter
Our team has welcomed hundreds of children through their very first day, and we know how much care those early weeks need. Your child's key worker will be their familiar, reassuring anchor, and we keep you closely updated as they settle. If you would like to see how gentle and supported the start can be, book a visit to Hine Park or Humberstone Park and we will walk you through exactly how we help new families.
Ready to Visit HPDN?
Come and see our nurseries for yourself. Our team would love to meet you and show you around.
Book a Free Visit ✨