Starting nursery is a monumental moment; for the child, it marks the first day they step into the academic world, and for the parent, it’s simply yet another precious “first step” of many.

In order to make the most of this milestone, it is a parent’s duty to prepare their child for that day. After all, walking and talking aren’t the only skills they should know before they officially step into their nursery.

Fortunately, we have prepared a guide for you:

 

Encourage Independence

Start teaching your children basic self-care skills they can do on their own. Zipping their coat, hand washing, opening and closing lunch boxes (and even nose wiping!) are vital skills that’ll help your child in their nursery life.

Grace Geller, the preschool director of A Children’s Carousel, says, “Socially adept children learn from parents who have confidence in their child’s ability to soothe themselves in a difficult situation…” Therefore, the process must be positive and constructive; don’t sigh or seem aggravated if they can’t do something simple – always motivate them, so that your child learns and grows even when they fail. A great way to instil independence is by doing it the fun way – make your child laugh and enjoy the act of caring for themselves.

Here’s a more detailed guide on how you can promote independence in your child.

 

Teach organisation

This is perhaps one of the most important skills your child should know before they enter their choice nursery. An organised environment reflects an organised mind, so teach your child the benefits of staying organised. You don’t have to go too in-depth (they will hardly understand!). Give layman reasons, for example: “You’ll find your toys easier” or “You won’t lose your favourite pencil!” In the long run, your child will feel the difference: they will be better thinkers, better problem solvers, and better at maintaining discipline.

This habit can be built overtime if you make your child work on ways they can organise their own belongings at homes. Every little step matters; it can be as simple as having your toddler clean up their toys after playing. Using colourful bins and baskets makes the chore a lot more fun.

 

Develop social skills

As much as your child’s ABCs matter, so do their social skills. After all, nurseries in JLT are a hub of children with different cultures, nationalities and ethnicity. With such diversity, comes a need to be socially adept.

Therefore, make sure your toddler is not withdrawn – nobody wants their children to be alone throughout such a monumental day.

A parent can do half of the job by teaching the basics: greeting others, table manners, listening without interruption, and even saying “magic words” like please and thank you are some key manners your child should have committed to habit. Give them the chance to meet new people by taking them to public parks and regular outings.

 

Emotional stability

Emotional stability arises only when there is a safe situation available to express feelings without judgement. Toddlers are not fluent enough to completely convey their feelings, therefore they will more often than not resort to withdrawal, crying, or even aggressiveness.

Instead of dismissing or devaluing your child’s feelings, try to understand why they’re feeling that way. The more you give your child the opportunity to discuss their emotions, the easier it’ll be for them to deal with their issue. This way, your child won’t throw random tantrums in front of the teacher, and will instead be more vocal and stable about their thoughts.

No doubt, the switch from home to school is a huge step for both toddler and parent. For the parent, it’s even more daunting – their child is finally leaving the next! Thankfully, nurseries like Oakfield Early Learning Centre offer a solid foundation for any child’s successful future, so that you don’t have to spend needless time worrying.

In fact, that is what our vision is all about: to let children learn in a nurturing and stimulating environment with only the best resources.