We recognise that each child, parent, and nursery relationship is unique, and we use our experience to support everyone in making that transition into nursery life as smooth as possible.

Gradual steps – your first sessions

Your child will then be invited to 5 settling in sessions within the nursery that will be organised as follows:

Settling in sessions

Your child will be invited to 5 settling in sessions over 5 days within the nursery.

These sessions are free and are usually booked in for the week before your child’s confirmed start date, keeping the experience fresh in your child’s mind, Your key person will fill in a report each step of the way which will help us and yourselves to track your child’s settling in and plan future support and development.

The first settling in session will be of approximately a 2 hour duration.  This will allow you to meet with your child’s key person and for us to learn about your child. We will complete an “all about me” booklet with you about your child’s interests, favourite toys, and allergies etc.  Toys of interest will be available for your child to play with. Whilst your child is with us they can experience activities taking place and meet their peers.

The second session will be a 3 hour visit and the settling in sessions will increase by one hour per day with you gradually reducing the amount of time you spend in the nursery with your child. 

Our experience has shown that having a Key Person for your child is the most effective way of ensuring that children develop a strong relationship with a significant adult in the nursery, giving every child the reassurance to feel secure, familiar, and confident in the nursery environment.

At Muswell Hill your child’s Key person will:

• Be assigned to your child on their first settling-in session, getting to know the child and family well in order to form strong relationships to support emotional needs.
• Ensure they have all of the information about your child and share this with other staff so that your child’s individual needs are cared for throughout each and every day.
• Carry out assessments and plan for your child’s development, ensuring they are always challenged and supported to reach their full potential.