Settling In

Helping every child feel safe, confident and ready to explore 

Starting nursery is a big and exciting milestone, and at Little Learners we take great care to make the transition as smooth and positive as possible. Our settling‑in process is designed to help children feel secure, build trusting relationships with staff, and become familiar with their new environment at a pace that suits them. 

Two settling in sessions 

To ensure every child feels comfortable before starting full sessions, we offer two settling in visits: 

1. Parent & Child Session 

This first visit allows you and your child to explore the nursery together. You’ll meet the staff, spend time in the classroom, and begin building a relationship with your child’s key person. It’s a relaxed opportunity to ask questions, share information, and help your child feel safe with you by their side. 

2. Independent Session 

The second visit gives your child the chance to spend time with us independently for a short period. This helps them get used to the routine, the environment, and their key person while you remain close by. Most children settle quickly, but we always adapt the process to suit individual needs. 

“All About Me” forms 

Before your child starts, we ask families to complete an All About Me form. This helps us get to know your child’s interests, routines, likes, dislikes, and any important information that will help them feel at home. Understanding each child as an individual means we can tailor our approach from day one. 

Enhanced transitions when needed 

Some children may benefit from a more gradual or personalised transition. If this is the case, we work closely with families to create an enhanced settling in plan, which may include: 

• Additional settling sessions 
• Shorter initial days 
• Extra time with the key person 
• Liaison with professionals already supporting the child 

Our aim is always to ensure your child feels secure, understood, and ready to enjoy their time with us. 

A Key Person who knows your child 

Every child at Little Learners is assigned a key person who becomes their familiar, trusted adult. They build strong relationships with both you and your child, helping them feel safe, confident, and ready to explore. This approach supports emotional wellbeing and ensures your child’s needs are met from the very beginning.