The Power of Outdoor Learning in Early Childhood Education
Devonna Harrison • May 27, 2025
At Welbourne Avenue Nursery, we believe that nature is one of the richest classrooms a child can experience. Outdoor learning goes far beyond recess or free play — it is a deeply intentional approach that fosters cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development. Whether digging in the soil, watching insects, or building with natural materials, children are learning about their world in powerful, memorable ways.
Why Outdoor Learning Matters
Young children are naturally curious. The outdoors provides:
- Sensory experiences that support brain development
- Opportunities for
gross motor skill development
- Hands-on engagement with real-world science and math concepts
- A sense of
freedom and creativity
- Support for mental well-being and emotional regulation
Time outside isn't just a break — it's a vital part of holistic learning.
Outdoor Learning in Action
At Welbourne Avenue Nursery, we design purposeful outdoor experiences. These include:
- Gardening: Children plant, water, harvest, and even taste the fruits of their labour. Through gardening, they learn about life cycles, responsibility, and patience.
- Nature Walks: Our supervised nature explorations teach children to observe closely, ask questions, and respect the environment.
- Mud Kitchens: Sensory-rich mud play fosters creativity and imaginative thinking while developing fine motor skills.
- Loose Parts Play: Sticks, stones, leaves, and logs become building materials, storytelling props, or even musical instruments.
Every outdoor moment is an invitation to explore, discover, and connect with the world around them.
Risk and Resilience
Supervised risk is an important part of outdoor learning. Climbing, balancing, or jumping from low heights teaches children to assess their abilities, build confidence, and problem-solve. Our staff are trained to support risk-taking in ways that are safe, age-appropriate, and empowering.
This kind of challenge promotes resilience, independence, and decision-making — skills children carry with them for life.
Supporting Emotional Health Through Nature
The calming effects of nature are well-documented. Green spaces help reduce stress, improve mood, and increase focus. For children who may struggle with transitions or overstimulation indoors, time outside provides grounding and renewal.
We incorporate mindfulness activities such as:
- Quiet observation of clouds or trees
- Nature-based storytelling circles
- Breathing exercises surrounded by birdsong
These experiences help children tune into their bodies and emotions in a peaceful, nurturing setting.
Weather as a Learning Tool
We embrace all types of weather (with the right gear, of course). Rain becomes a chance to splash and observe puddles. Wind lets us explore movement through scarves or streamers. Changes in light and temperature provide rich vocabulary and scientific inquiry.
Children quickly learn that every day brings something new — and that nature is always changing, just like them.
Partnership with Families
We encourage families to extend outdoor learning at home:
- Walks in the park while asking open-ended questions
- Collecting leaves or rocks for art projects
- Observing the sky and weather together
Together, we raise children who are connected to and respectful of the natural world — a value that lasts far beyond the nursery years.
One of our key goals at Welbourne Avenue Nursery is to help children grow into confident, capable individuals who believe in their own abilities. We do this by nurturing independence from the very beginning — giving children space, time, and support to try things on their own and take pride in their accomplishments. What Does Independence Look Like in Early Childhood? Independence in young children can be seen in everyday actions such as: Putting on their own coat or shoes Serving themselves at snack time Choosing their own activities Solving simple problems without immediate adult intervention Expressing their preferences or needs clearly Each of these actions may seem small, but they represent major developmental strides in executive functioning, emotional regulation, and self-esteem. Our Approach to Supporting Independence We design our environment to make independence possible: Child-height furniture and materials allow children to access what they need without help. Visual routines and picture schedules provide structure so children know what to expect and what to do next. Clear, consistent expectations help children build responsibility and accountability. We offer just the right amount of guidance — stepping in when truly needed, but stepping back enough to let children discover what they can do. The Role of Choice Choice empowers children. We allow for choice throughout the day: What activity would you like to explore? Which story shall we read? Would you like to sit at this table or that one? Would you like help, or do you want to try it yourself? These choices might seem minor, but they reinforce decision-making skills and help children understand that their voice matters. Building Skills Through Everyday Routines We use daily routines as opportunities for learning independence: Mealtimes : Children pour drinks, serve food, and help clean up. Toileting and hygiene : With gentle coaching, children learn to manage their personal care with increasing skill. Tidying up : Each child learns where items belong and takes part in keeping the space organized. These small acts of self-care and responsibility build competence and confidence. Encouraging a Growth Mindset We don't expect children to succeed at everything right away. In fact, mistakes are part of the learning process . Our educators offer encouragement like: “That was a great try!” “I see you’re figuring it out.” “What could you do differently next time?” This language helps children develop a growth mindset — the belief that effort leads to improvement, and that challenges are opportunities, not failures. Celebrating Progress We acknowledge and celebrate each child’s milestones in independence, whether it’s zipping a coat, initiating a game, or solving a peer conflict with words. These moments are meaningful victories that pave the way for confident, lifelong learners. Supporting Independence at Home We work closely with parents to support independence beyond the classroom. We offer tips on: Age-appropriate chores Morning and bedtime routines Letting children take small risks Encouraging persistence instead of rushing to help Together, we foster a consistent message: “You can do this.”
Literacy is more than just reading books — it’s a way of engaging with the world, expressing ideas, and building connections. At Welbourne Avenue Nursery, we don’t wait for formal education to begin cultivating literacy. We immerse children in a world of words from the moment they walk through our doors. What is Early Literacy? Early literacy refers to the foundational skills that prepare children to become confident readers and writers. These include: Phonological awareness (the sounds of language) Vocabulary development Print awareness (understanding how books and print work) Story comprehension Oral language and communication These skills begin developing in infancy and are nurtured through rich language experiences, play, and exploration. Our Literacy-Rich Classrooms Each of our classrooms is designed to surround children with literacy in a way that feels natural and joyful. Our environments include: Cozy reading corners with a wide range of age-appropriate books Labels on shelves and materials to connect print to meaning Storytime sessions with dynamic read-alouds Props and puppets for interactive storytelling Opportunities to “write” through drawing, scribbling, and mark-making We emphasize that reading and writing are for communication, not performance. Children are free to explore language at their own pace, in their own way. Daily Literacy Experiences Every day, children at Welbourne Avenue Nursery engage in activities that build literacy skills: Singing songs and nursery rhymes to develop rhythm and rhyme Retelling stories with puppets or pictures to build comprehension “Writing” letters to friends or family members Using their names in attendance boards and cubbies Describing their art or play aloud with adult support These small moments build a powerful foundation of language and literacy. Storytelling as a Learning Tool We view storytelling as a vital part of literacy development. Whether retelling a known tale or inventing their own, children learn: Sequencing (beginning, middle, end) Descriptive language Emotional expression Listening and turn-taking Our educators often write down children’s stories, helping them see the connection between spoken and written words — a key part of emergent literacy. Encouraging a Love of Books The most important thing we can do for future readers is to help them love books. That’s why we offer: Diverse and inclusive literature that reflects children’s lives Books in different languages Books that feature humor, adventure, emotions, and curiosity Freedom for children to choose what they want to read We also invite parents to borrow books, share stories from home, and participate in our “Family Reading Days” where grown-ups come in to read aloud. Supporting Literacy at Home We partner with families to extend literacy experiences into the home. We offer tips, book lists, and ideas like: Talking about your day at dinner Singing bedtime songs Reading together every evening, even if just for five minutes Encouraging children to tell their own stories Together, we build confident communicators who see reading not as a task, but as a joy.
At Welbourne Avenue Nursery, we understand that academic learning is only one part of early childhood development. Equally important — if not more so — is the development of emotional intelligence . Emotional intelligence, or EQ, refers to a child’s ability to recognize, express, and regulate their emotions and empathize with others. Cultivating this skill set in early childhood sets the stage for lifelong mental health, social success, and resilience. What is Emotional Intelligence? Emotional intelligence includes five core components: Self-awareness : Understanding one’s own emotions. Self-regulation : Managing emotions in healthy ways. Motivation : Channeling emotions toward positive goals. Empathy : Recognizing emotions in others. Social skills : Interacting in ways that respect both oneself and others. These are not innate traits. Like literacy and math, emotional intelligence can and should be taught — through modeling, practice, and guided reflection. How We Teach Emotional Intelligence Our educators are trained in intentional emotional guidance. We help children build emotional vocabulary, understand how feelings affect behavior, and learn techniques to manage those feelings constructively. Some of our methods include: Emotion Cards : Visual aids help children identify and name feelings such as happy, sad, angry, or frustrated. Feelings Check-Ins : We ask children how they’re feeling during circle time and throughout the day. Calm Down Corners : A designated space with sensory tools, soft materials, and calming prompts where children can regroup. Storytelling & Books : We use age-appropriate stories that illustrate emotional situations, helping children build empathy and discuss feelings openly. Helping Children Manage Big Feelings Tantrums, outbursts, and tears are all natural in early childhood. Our role is not to suppress them but to support children in moving through them. We remain calm, validate their emotions, and offer strategies like deep breathing, counting, or seeking adult help. We teach children that all emotions are acceptable, but not all behaviors are. For example, “It’s okay to be mad. It’s not okay to hit.” From this framework, children learn that feelings are temporary, manageable, and nothing to be ashamed of. Modeling Matters Children learn far more from what they see than what they are told. Our educators model emotional regulation in daily interactions, calmly navigating frustrations or conflicts and talking through their own feelings when appropriate. This consistent modeling teaches children how to respond to life’s challenges with self-awareness and control. The Role of Play in Emotional Learning Much of emotional development happens through play: Role play helps children act out and process emotional scenarios. Cooperative games teach teamwork and negotiation. Artistic expression offers a safe outlet for internal experiences. Whether painting, pretending, or problem-solving together, children are building the social-emotional muscles they’ll carry with them for life. Family Partnership We regularly share strategies and insights with parents to ensure emotional learning continues at home. We encourage families to use similar language, validate feelings, and implement calm-down strategies as a team. Together, we create a consistent, emotionally intelligent environment that nurtures confidence and well-being.
The start of nursery school is an exciting milestone for both children and families — but it can also bring nervousness, uncertainty, and many questions. At Welbourne Avenue Nursery, we approach each new enrolment with great care, ensuring a smooth, supportive transition for every child who joins our community. The Importance of a Gentle Start Young children thrive on familiarity and routine. For many, starting nursery is their first extended experience away from home. It’s a big adjustment, and we believe in easing into it slowly and compassionately. We offer: Staggered Start Times : Shorter days at the beginning help children build comfort without overwhelm. Settling-In Sessions : Families are welcome to stay and explore the space with their child before drop-off becomes regular. Consistent Staffing : We ensure each child has a familiar, consistent adult they can bond with. This gentle approach helps reduce separation anxiety and allows trust to develop at a natural pace. Partnering With Families From Day One We view parents and carers as essential partners in a child’s learning journey. From the first tour to the first day, we work closely with families to understand each child’s personality, preferences, and routines. We gather insight about: Sleep schedules and eating habits Comfort items and favorite activities Family culture, language, and traditions Any fears, health needs, or sensory sensitivities This information helps us tailor our care to meet each child’s unique needs, creating a truly individualized experience. Creating a Home-Like Environment We design our nursery spaces to feel warm, safe, and welcoming. Soft lighting, cozy nooks, family photos, and gentle music help children feel more at ease. We keep class sizes small and ratios low so that every child gets the attention and connection they deserve. Our educators greet each child by name, listen attentively, and help them navigate each part of the day with empathy and encouragement. Helping Children Build Relationships Making friends and connecting with educators are key parts of the nursery experience. We use: Small-group activities Turn-taking games Parallel play setups Gentle introductions to group routines Over time, children build confidence, communication skills, and emotional resilience. Many parents are surprised by how quickly their child begins to thrive, once the initial adjustment phase has passed. Open Communication With Families We know that parents want to feel informed and reassured. That’s why we offer: Daily reports or updates Photos and notes about your child’s day Open-door policies for questions and feedback Regular family meetings and parent-teacher conversations This two-way communication ensures you stay connected, even when you’re not in the room. Every Transition is Unique We understand that not every child adjusts at the same pace. Some may dive right in; others may take more time. There is no right or wrong — only the importance of meeting each child where they are. Our team is patient, consistent, and responsive. We’re here to support not only your child, but you as a family, every step of the way.
Welbourne Avenue Nursery is a vibrant community filled with children and families from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. For many of our students, English is not their first language — and we see this not as a challenge, but as a strength. Multilingual children bring rich experiences and perspectives, and we are committed to supporting their growth in both their home language and English with thoughtful, respectful strategies. Why Language Diversity Matters Children who grow up in multilingual households develop unique cognitive advantages. Research shows that dual language learners often demonstrate: Stronger executive functioning Enhanced problem-solving abilities Greater mental flexibility Increased cultural sensitivity Far from being a hindrance, learning more than one language early in life creates a solid foundation for future academic success. That’s why we intentionally support and celebrate every child’s linguistic identity. Building a Culturally Responsive Environment From the moment a family walks through our doors, we seek to honor their culture and language. Our classrooms feature: Books in multiple languages Labels and signs in English and children’s home languages Multicultural music and storytelling Visual cues and routines to support understanding We welcome families to share songs, stories, and traditions, creating an inclusive environment where every child feels seen and valued. Language Development Through Connection For dual language learners, strong relationships are key. Our educators build warm, trusting connections that help children feel safe enough to take language risks. We use gestures, facial expressions, and repetition to ensure understanding while modeling rich, descriptive English. We also honor the child’s home language. If a child begins school speaking mostly another language, we don’t rush them to switch — we allow their understanding of English to grow naturally, knowing that a strong first language supports stronger second language acquisition. Strategies We Use to Support Dual Language Learners Visual Aids : Picture schedules, labeled materials, and illustrated stories help children connect words with meaning. Repetition and Routine : Repeated exposure to words in context helps children absorb language without pressure. Peer Support : Children often learn from one another, and we create mixed-language playgroups to encourage natural conversation and modeling. Language-Rich Play : We engage children in storytelling, singing, and role-playing — all of which support vocabulary and comprehension. Family Communication : We use translation tools, bilingual staff, and home-language newsletters to stay in close communication with families. The Silent Period is Normal Some children go through a “silent period” when they begin learning a new language — a time when they listen and observe more than they speak. We recognize this as a natural and healthy stage in language development and never force children to speak before they are ready. Instead, we encourage participation in non-verbal ways, offer praise for effort, and create a low-stress environment that allows confidence to grow. Our Commitment to Inclusion Language is central to identity, and we want every child to feel proud of their voice. We never treat English as superior to any other language — instead, we foster a community where all languages are assets and all children are capable, curious learners.
Discipline in early childhood should never be about punishment. At Welbourne Avenue Nursery, we embrace a positive, respectful approach to behavior guidance that helps children understand their emotions, build empathy, and make good choices — not out of fear, but from a place of self-awareness and care for others. Understanding Behavior as Communication Young children are still learning how to express themselves. What may look like “bad behavior” is often a child’s attempt to meet a need, seek connection, or cope with a feeling they don’t yet know how to manage. We train our educators to look beyond the behavior and ask: What is the child trying to communicate? This mindset allows us to respond with compassion and support rather than punishment or shame. Key Strategies We Use Clear, Consistent Expectations Children feel safe when they know what to expect. We use simple language, visual cues, and consistent routines to help children understand boundaries. Modeling Respectful Communication Children learn how to treat others by watching the adults around them. We model calm, respectful interactions even in moments of conflict, showing children that strong feelings can be managed without hurtful words or actions. Naming Emotions We help children build emotional literacy by naming their feelings: “You seem frustrated because the toy isn’t working the way you want it to.” Naming emotions helps children recognize and manage them more effectively. Teaching Problem-Solving Skills When conflicts arise — as they naturally do in early childhood — we guide children through the process of solving them together. We ask questions like, “What happened? What do you need? What can we do to make it better?” Redirection Instead of simply saying “no,” we offer positive alternatives. If a child is throwing blocks, we might say, “Blocks are for building. If you want to throw something, let’s try these soft balls outside.” Reflection and Repair When a child makes a mistake, we treat it as a learning opportunity. We talk through what happened and explore how to make amends — whether by saying sorry, helping a friend, or trying again with support. Partnering with Families We know that every child is unique, and every family brings their own values and experiences. We communicate regularly with parents about behavioral goals and strategies, ensuring consistency between home and school. We also offer resources, workshops, and one-on-one support for families seeking guidance on behavior and discipline.
At Welbourne Avenue Nursery, we often hear the phrase, “It looks like they’re just playing.” But to us — and to anyone who understands early childhood development — there’s no just about it. Play is the foundation of all meaningful learning for young children. It’s how they explore, experiment, collaborate, and grow. The Research Behind Play-Based Learning Years of research in early childhood education confirm what educators have known for generations: children learn best through play. Brain development, emotional regulation, language acquisition, and social skills all flourish when children are engaged in active, open-ended play. Play is not a distraction from learning; it is learning. When a child stacks blocks, they’re exploring physics and spatial awareness. When they engage in pretend play, they’re practicing language and empathy. When they dig in the garden, they’re developing fine motor skills and an early understanding of science. Types of Play in Our Curriculum At Welbourne Avenue Nursery, we intentionally offer a wide range of play experiences, each with distinct developmental benefits: Constructive Play : Using blocks, sand, and loose parts to build and create supports problem-solving, planning, and mathematical thinking. Dramatic Play : Pretending to be shopkeepers, parents, or chefs enhances social skills, emotional expression, and storytelling. Physical Play : Climbing, running, dancing, and balancing builds coordination, strength, and risk assessment. Sensory Play : Exploring water, playdough, mud, or textured materials helps children self-regulate and strengthens neural pathways. Cooperative Play : Playing with others teaches negotiation, turn-taking, empathy, and conflict resolution. Each type of play offers a unique opportunity for growth and development — and our classrooms are thoughtfully designed to support them all. The Role of Educators in Play Our educators are not passive observers during play — they are active facilitators. We listen, ask questions, introduce new vocabulary, and gently extend children’s thinking. For example, if two children are building a road for toy cars, an educator might ask, “How will the cars get across the river?” prompting critical thinking and collaborative problem-solving. This type of adult-guided play helps children make deeper connections and explore new possibilities. We also observe carefully to understand each child’s interests and developmental needs, then use those observations to inform future activities and lesson planning. Play Builds the Foundation for Academics Some parents wonder how play prepares children for the more structured learning of primary school. The truth is, play builds the exact skills children need for academic success: Literacy : Through storytelling, role-play, and book exploration Math : Through sorting, counting, measuring, and building Science : Through exploration, experimentation, and observation Social Studies : Through community role-play and cultural representation Rather than rushing children into academic tasks they aren’t ready for, we build the cognitive and emotional foundations that make later learning not only easier but more joyful. Outdoor Play and Exploration We strongly believe that outdoor play is just as important as indoor learning. Our outdoor spaces are more than playgrounds — they are classrooms in nature. Here, children: Observe insects and birds Dig, pour, and plant Build obstacle courses with natural materials Engage in large-group games Being outdoors supports physical health, reduces stress, and nurtures a connection with the environment. Children become more confident, more curious, and more resilient when they have time to move freely and explore outside.
In a world filled with text, early literacy is a gift we begin nurturing long before formal reading begins. At Welbourne Avenue Nursery, we cultivate a love of language and storytelling from the very start, building a literacy-rich environment where books, conversations, and creativity are everywhere. Reading Aloud with Purpose Reading aloud is one of the most powerful tools we use to develop language and literacy skills. Our educators select books that are age-appropriate, diverse, and engaging. They read with expression, ask open-ended questions, and encourage children to predict, imagine, and connect. Daily story-time is a treasured part of our routine. It sparks curiosity, builds comprehension, and deepens the bond between child and educator. Children don’t just listen — they interact, comment, and participate. Print-Rich Classrooms Every corner of our classrooms is filled with print — not just books, but labels, signs, word walls, and child-created writing. Children are constantly exposed to letters, numbers, and meaningful print that helps them connect spoken and written language. Our learning centers often include: Letter tiles for name recognition Magnetic boards for letter exploration Books in cozy nooks and theme corners Journals and writing materials for drawing and scribbling This kind of exposure helps children internalize early concepts of print, such as reading left to right, understanding that print carries meaning, and recognizing familiar words. Conversations as Literacy Talking with children is just as important as reading to them. At Welbourne, we engage children in rich, responsive conversations throughout the day. We listen closely, expand on their ideas, and introduce new vocabulary in meaningful contexts. Whether during play, meals, or group time, we model expressive language, encourage storytelling, and invite children to share their thoughts. These conversations strengthen language development and help children develop confidence in their voice. Encouraging Pre-Writing Skills Before children can write, they need to develop fine motor control, hand strength, and an understanding of symbols. We support this through playful, hands-on activities that build foundational writing skills: Scribbling with crayons and markers Tracing letters in sand or finger paint Using tweezers, play dough, and lacing cards Drawing shapes and lines during art These activities build muscle memory and hand-eye coordination while helping children develop comfort with writing tools. Storytelling and Imagination We encourage children to tell their own stories through dramatic play, drawing, and oral language. These creative expressions help children understand narrative structure, sequencing, and descriptive language. Teachers act as scribes for young children, writing down their dictated stories or ideas. This validates their voice and shows them that their words matter. Family Engagement in Literacy Parents and careers are key partners in developing early literacy. We share book lists, recommend storytelling activities, and encourage families to read together at home. We host literacy nights, book swaps, and storytelling events that bring our community together through the joy of reading.
At Welbourne Avenue Nursery, we believe learning should never be confined to a desk or limited to quiet time. Young children learn best when they move their bodies, use their voices, and engage with rhythm. That’s why music and movement are key components of our daily curriculum — not as side activities, but as essential building blocks of development. Music as a Gateway to Learning Music speaks to children on a deep, intuitive level. It engages the brain, lifts the spirit, and helps young learners connect with each other and the world around them. From familiar nursery rhymes to drumming circles, music activates multiple areas of the brain at once — strengthening memory, pattern recognition, language processing, and emotional regulation. At Welbourne, music is woven into every part of the day. We sing during transitions, hum during cleanup, and dance during group times. The classroom is alive with melody and rhythm — a constant source of learning and joy. Language Development Through Song Singing is one of the most effective ways to support early language development. Songs help children expand vocabulary, practice articulation, and improve listening skills. Repetitive lyrics reinforce word recognition and rhythm supports the natural cadence of speech. We introduce songs from many cultures and languages, reflecting the diversity of our community and helping children appreciate different sounds and traditions. Singing also encourages shy or quiet children to participate and express themselves in non-intimidating ways. Movement Builds Strong Bodies and Minds Children are not meant to sit still for long. Movement is not a break from learning — it is learning. Whether it’s marching, stretching, swaying, or stomping, children build coordination, balance, and strength every time they move. In our classrooms, movement happens intentionally and often: We use action songs to teach concepts like left and right, fast and slow, or high and low. We introduce yoga poses to teach body awareness and emotional regulation. We hold dance parties that promote social interaction and self-confidence. All of this movement is more than fun — it supports neurological development, encourages sensory integration, and increases classroom engagement. Emotional Expression Through Music Music provides children with a safe and creative outlet to express their feelings. When words are hard to find, music gives children a voice. A quiet child might beat a drum to release frustration. A joyful child may twirl and spin with abandon. A group might bond through a shared clapping rhythm. We offer instruments, scarves, and open space to encourage children to explore and communicate through sound and movement. These moments help children regulate emotions, relieve anxiety, and build resilience. Cultural Awareness Through Sound Music is a universal language — but it’s also a powerful way to introduce children to the richness of global cultures. We celebrate music from around the world in our classrooms, exposing children to different rhythms, instruments, and languages. Whether it's African drumming, Caribbean steel pan, South Asian tabla, or European classical, each genre opens a window into a new tradition. This exposure fosters respect, appreciation, and cultural curiosity — values we hold dear at Welbourne. Music in Storytelling and Literacy We incorporate music into our storytelling sessions, using rhythm, rhyme, and melody to bring books to life. This integration deepens comprehension, increases attention span, and makes literacy more engaging. Children also learn to associate sound patterns with letter patterns, improving phonological awareness — a key skill in early reading development. We support this with clapping syllables, rhyming games, and call-and-response chants that make language feel exciting and alive.
For many families, the first day of nursery is filled with anticipation, excitement, and — understandably — a few nerves. It’s a big step, not just for the child, but for parents and caregivers too. At Welbourne Avenue Nursery, we understand the emotional weight of this transition, and we work hand-in-hand with families to make it as smooth, gentle, and positive as possible. Why Transitions Matter in Early Childhood Children thrive on routine, consistency, and familiarity. Moving from the comfort of home into a new setting filled with unfamiliar people, sounds, and expectations can be overwhelming at first. How we support children during this transition shapes their confidence, their relationships with caregivers, and their willingness to explore and engage. At Welbourne, we approach the transition from home to nursery with empathy, patience, and personalized support. No two children are the same, so no two transitions look exactly alike — and that’s okay. Building Trust Before the First Day Our transition process begins well before a child’s first full day. We invite families for orientation visits, classroom walkthroughs, and one-on-one meetings with educators. These early connections lay the foundation for trust — both for the child and the parent. Children have a chance to see the classroom, meet their teachers, and explore materials at their own pace. Parents can ask questions, share their hopes and concerns, and begin to build relationships with the staff. We also encourage families to share key details about their child’s temperament, routines, and preferences. The more we know about a child before they arrive, the better we can meet their needs from day one. Creating Predictable, Nurturing Routines One of the most effective ways to help children feel secure is to provide a consistent, predictable daily routine. From drop-off to pick-up, our classrooms follow a familiar rhythm that helps children know what to expect and when. We use visual schedules, transitional songs, and gentle verbal cues to help children move smoothly between activities. Over time, this structure becomes internalized — and children begin to anticipate and participate in the flow of the day with growing confidence. Gentle Goodbyes, Confident Hellos For many families, the hardest moment is saying goodbye in the morning. We support this moment with kindness and reassurance, never rushing a child (or parent) through their emotions. Children are given time to settle in, connect with a familiar adult, and choose a comforting activity to ease the transition. We also help parents develop a consistent drop-off routine — whether it’s a special goodbye phrase, a wave at the window, or a short cuddle in the cozy corner. Children feel more at ease when goodbyes are consistent and predictable. Our teachers check in with parents during these early days, offering updates and encouragement to help them feel confident in their child’s progress. Supporting Emotional Expression Starting nursery is an emotional experience, and big feelings are a normal part of the process. Whether a child expresses sadness, frustration, excitement, or uncertainty, we respond with empathy and validation. Rather than distracting children from their feelings, we help them name and process them. “It’s okay to miss your mummy. She’ll be back after snack time.” These small acknowledgments build emotional intelligence and a sense of safety. Building Strong Relationships with Educators Children are more likely to feel secure in a new environment when they form strong bonds with their caregivers. That’s why we focus on building trusting, respectful relationships from the very beginning. Each child is paired with a key person — an educator who takes special responsibility for their transition, care, and emotional needs. This relationship acts as a bridge between home and school, helping children feel grounded as they adapt to their new setting. Through cuddles, play, and consistent presence, our educators become trusted figures in the child’s life — offering comfort and connection when it’s needed most. Parent Partnerships During the Transition We believe that parents are the experts on their own children, and we value their insight and input. During the transition period, we maintain close communication with families — whether through daily conversations, written notes, or quick check-ins at pick-up. We provide updates on how children are settling in, what activities they’re enjoying, and how they’re engaging with peers. This transparency helps families feel connected and reassured, even when they’re apart from their child. We also listen carefully to parents’ observations, questions, and concerns, adjusting our approach as needed to ensure every child feels supported. Gradual Start Options For families who prefer a slower introduction to nursery, we offer flexible, gradual start schedules. This may involve shorter days at first, a parent staying for part of the session, or a phased-in approach over the course of a week. These gradual starts give children time to build comfort and familiarity without feeling overwhelmed — and they give parents peace of mind knowing their child is supported every step of the way. The Transformation Over Time It’s remarkable to witness how quickly most children settle into nursery life. A child who cried at drop-off for the first week begins to run in with a smile. Another who clung tightly to a parent’s leg now waves proudly from the window. These moments, while small, are powerful reminders of children’s resilience and capacity for growth. With the right support, what begins as a difficult transition becomes a joyful routine — a new world of friendships, discoveries, and confidence.
