Starting nursery is a big step for your baby, and for you. Whether you’re heading back to work after parental leave or simply ready for a new chapter, it’s natural to feel a mix of excitement, nerves and maybe a few tears.
The good news is that a little planning can make the move much smoother. Our two-week plan breaks preparation into small, manageable steps, so your baby can get used to new people, places and routines gradually, and you can feel confident handing them over.
Before you start
Ideally, begin this plan two weeks before your baby’s first full day. If you can, leave a little breathing space before you return to work, so there’s time for extra settling-in sessions if your baby needs them.
Before week one, make sure you’ve:
- completed your registration forms and shared any medical, allergy or dietary information
- booked your settling-in sessions with the nursery
- jotted down your baby’s current routine, including feeds, naps and favourite ways to be soothed
Week one: building familiarity
Days 1 to 2: Share your baby’s routine
Sit down with your baby’s key person and talk through their day: when they feed, nap and play, how they like to be held, and what calms them when they’re upset. The more we know, the more we can make nursery feel like home. This is also a great time to ask any questions you have.
Days 3 to 4: First settling-in visit together
Stay with your baby for a short visit of about an hour. Let them explore the baby room while you stay close by. Their key person will start building a bond by playing, chatting and joining in with care routines while you’re there.
Day 5: Practise with feeding
If your baby is breastfed and will need milk at nursery, use this week to practise with a bottle or cup. It often helps if someone other than you offers it. If your baby is weaning, let us know which foods they’ve tried so we can follow your lead.
Weekend: Short separations at home
Leave your baby with a trusted family member or friend for an hour or two. This helps them learn that when you go, you always come back. It also gives you a gentle practice run at saying goodbye.
Week two: building confidence
Days 8 to 9: Your first short separation
Stay for a few minutes to help your baby settle, then say a calm, cheerful goodbye and leave for about an hour. Their key person will comfort and play with them. When you come back, you’ll hear how they got on.
Days 10 to 11: A longer session, with a feed or nap
Build up to a half-day session that includes a feed or a nap at nursery. This is a big step, as it helps your baby get used to eating and sleeping in a new place with new people.
Day 12: Pack the nursery bag
Get everything ready and labelled:
- nappies, wipes and nappy cream
- at least two spare sets of clothes
- bottles and formula or expressed milk, if needed
- a comforter or familiar blanket
- a sun hat or warm hat, depending on the season
Adding something that smells of home, like a muslin you’ve slept with, can be very reassuring.
Days 13 to 14: Rest and rehearse
Keep the weekend calm, with plenty of sleep and cuddles. Do a practice run of your morning routine and journey to nursery, so the first full day feels less rushed for you both.
Looking after yourself
It’s completely normal to find the first few weeks emotional. Babies often pick up on our feelings, so try to stay calm and positive at drop-off, even if you shed a tear in the car afterwards. We’re always happy for you to call and check in, and we’ll keep you updated on how your baby is doing throughout the day. Be kind to yourself: you’re giving your baby a wonderful new world of people, play and discovery.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the best age for a baby to start nursery? There’s no single right age. Many babies start between 9 months and a year, often when a parent returns to work. Babies who start younger, before separation anxiety typically peaks, sometimes settle more easily. Every baby is different, and we tailor settling-in to suit each one.
How many settling-in sessions will my baby need? It varies. Some babies settle after two or three sessions, while others need more. We’ll be guided by your baby and keep you updated, adding extra sessions if they would help.
Will nursery follow my baby’s routine? Yes. For babies, we follow your home routine for feeds and naps as closely as possible. As your baby grows, they’ll gradually fit in with the room’s daily rhythm.
My baby is breastfed. How will feeding work at nursery? You’re welcome to send in expressed milk, clearly labelled, and we’ll store it safely. Some parents also like to come in to breastfeed. Just talk to us about what works for you.
What if my baby cries when I leave? Crying at drop-off is very normal and usually short-lived. Keep goodbyes brief and warm. Your baby’s key person will comfort them, and we’ll let you know when they’ve settled.
Should I bring a comforter? Yes. A familiar comforter, blanket or muslin can help your baby feel secure, especially at nap time. Please label it clearly.
How will I know how my baby’s day has gone? We’ll share updates on feeds, nappies, sleep and play each day. You’re always welcome to call us, too.
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About the author
Claire Fox-Tristram is the Director of Kiddiwinks Day Nursery and has more than 25 years of experience in the early years sector. Throughout her career, she has supported hundreds of families through every stage of their child’s early years, from settling in as babies to getting ready for school. Claire is passionate about giving every child a happy, nurturing start and helping parents feel confident and well informed.
