Settling in kindergarten and nursery

Every change in life is associated with both curiosity and uncertainty, regardless of age. Starting an adventure with a kindergarten or nursery is a huge change, during which a child is participating for the first time without his parents or guardians, without familiar rooms, toys or their daily structure.

The toddler enters a new environment, full of unknown people, toys and equipment. It causes both curiosities, surprise and fear, and is a difficult experience for them.

Before the child adapts to the new situation, they undergo a so-called adaptation period. The adaptation process can last up to 8 weeks, but usually, after 2 weeks you can notice significant differences in the attitude and behaviour of the child. During this time, behaviour on the psychosocial and physiological level may change, which should be treated as a response to adapting to the new reality, which is an inherent and completely natural element of adaptation that is shaped individually in each child.

Adaptation begins with the parent. Once a decision is made, it should be consistently implemented. Parents must be convinced that going to kindergarten is the best decision for both them and their children. Do not cry. Never allow yourself to be fearful. You create a tragedy in a child’s eyes –  that something really bad is going to happen. Don’t disappear without saying goodbye. Don’t give up when your baby cries. Do not go back into the classroom after saying goodbye. It will be fine!