Getting young children ready for first day of nursery ‘post lockdown’

As we emerge out of lockdown and begin to return to work, many young children are getting ready to return to school or first day of nursery. Yet this can be a confusing time for them, as children have become used to being around parents and carers every day at home for the last 3 months.

While many children will be overflowing with excitement about seeing their friends and favourite nursery workers again, for some there will be more hesitation. The abrupt closure of nurseries and loss of connection to nursery practitioners may have been felt as a loss for little ones. This combined with lockdown’s tensions and strain on day to day life, may have impacted their eagerness to return to nursery.  

Leonor Stjepic, CEO of the Montessori Group UK is here to help, with some simple things that you can do to alleviate anxieties and get your children prepped and ready to return to or start their first day of nursery.

Reconnect with your nursery before returning 

Talk to your nursery and your child’s key worker – they know your child and can help. What are the nursery’s plans? What language is the nursery using to talk about the changes that may be in place? It’s important to use the same language as the setting to avoid confusion. 

If your nursery is offering ways to reconnect before opening, try and ensure you take this opportunity – share some of the activities you have been doing with your child to help them reconnect when they return.

Have an open conversation 

Many children, like us, hate surprises. Prepare them by informally introducing the idea of nursery and their nursery practitioner, use people’s names and show them pictures of nursery and their friends. Some children may benefit from a calendar on the wall that can help the countdown. 

Keep explanations short and simple

Nursery may look and feel different due to Covid-19 restrictions. Its okay to acknowledge that it may be strange. Reassure them the changes are to keep everyone safe. Make connections to what the children may be experiencing already, such as facemasks and washing their hands more to help them acclimatise. Most importantly, keep explanations short and simple – let the child lead; if they need more, they will ask questions. 

Playing is more important than ever

Play provides children with opportunities to develop their own views; put things into perspective; make connections and learn about the perspectives of others. Play also develops self-esteem, curiosity and confidence, all of which reduce stress and promotes positive wellbeing – vital during a time when anxieties are high. 

To spark imaginations, create a safe space where your children can play freely and create their own games. Take the hint from your children. Watch what they are up to and see how they want you to be involved and provide the resources to extend their games. 

Encourage independence at home

Being independent at home will help children with the confidence to return to nursery. It’s easy to do and can help you too. Get them involved with the daily tasks at home like shopping, washing, or cleaning up if they have made a mess. Let your children pick their clothes and put activities at their height so they can choose what they want to do. Things may take a little longer but give them time to achieve and develop a sense of responsibility. 

Don’t worry too much, young children are resilient

Children are stronger than you think. Our research tells us that 65% of parents have been inspired by their children’s attitude to life and learning over lockdown, and 85% admire and are proud of the way their children have adapted. 

Children are resilient and many will adapt quicker than adults to the new norm. Think positively and try not stress, children will take their cues from you.