Although nursery staff are trained to support children through their early days and the process of settling into a childcare setting, there are many things you as a parent can do to help your child get used to a new daily rhythm and embrace going to nursery or daycare.
You can begin the adaptation process even before your child’s first day in the group, and continue supporting them throughout the initial days and weeks of adjustment.
If your child is also entering a nursery where the language spoken is not their native tongue, the first step in preparing for and easing the transition is introducing them to some basic Croatian words and phrases. This will help them communicate more easily with nursery staff and other children. Find out whether there is a picture book or visual dictionary that can help you and your child learn common words and expressions in Croatian. Also, when enrolling your child, ask the nursery for advice and support in preparing your child for entering a group where a new or unfamiliar language is used.
Other ways to support the transition include:
● Talk about the nursery at home, take regular walks to it, and spend time at the playground or park in front of it—especially when other children are playing there.
● If possible, plan to spend two or three days (take time off work if necessary) in the group with your child, staying with them until they feel more comfortable with the new people and environment.
● Let the nursery staff know your child’s nickname or any affectionate name you use—hearing it from the adults can help your child feel more at ease.
● Give the nursery staff a photo of you or the family to pin up in the room—looking at it during moments of sadness can be comforting for your child.
● Inform the nursery staff about your child’s individual needs, including routines or preferences around eating and sleeping.
● If your child wants to, allow them to bring a comfort item from home to nursery.
● Show your child you love them, tell them you love them, and let them see that you are calm and happy they are in nursery.
● After collecting them, ask about their day and listen attentively to what they say.
● Your child will soon start talking about nursery, other children, the staff, and toys—encourage and nurture this growing interest.
● Do not belittle their difficulties adjusting or make fun of their emotions—your child needs your support more than ever right now. Spend quality time with them, play together, go for walks, and talk.
● Establish and maintain a consistent home routine (meals, play, walks, bedtime)—consistency and predictability have a calming effect on children.
● Never sneak away from your child—always say goodbye, tell them you love them and when you’ll return (e.g. after lunch or nap), and keep your promise.
● Avoid speaking in front of your child about your own fears or worries—children pick up on your anxiety, which can intensify their own.
● Keep goodbyes short and sweet—long farewells can give the impression that you are unsure about leaving them.
● If separating becomes too emotionally difficult for you, consider asking another family member (e.g. dad) to handle the drop-offs.
● Educate yourself about the typical adjustment process for nursery or daycare. If adaptation issues persist beyond three to four weeks, contact the nursery’s support staff, especially if your child still refuses to eat or sleep, sleeps poorly at home, or shows noticeable behavioural changes that concern you.
The first few days—or even weeks—of settling into this new situation can seem very difficult and distressing for your child, but trust the process of adaptation. If you notice persistent difficulties, involve the nursery’s professional team—they are trained to support families through this stage. Rest assured, the day will come when your child looks forward to nursery, eager for new adventures with their nursery friends.
Good luck!
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