Settling Your Child Into Childcare

What You Need to Know

Settling your child into childcare can feel overwhelming – for both you and your little one. But remember, your chosen setting is full of experienced professionals who get it. They’ve helped lots of families through this stage and are always happy to support and guide you.

Once you’ve picked your nursery or setting, try to spend some time there before your child officially starts. Getting to know the space, the team, and the routines can really help ease both your nerves and your child’s.

Children look to you for signals – if you feel confident and relaxed, they’re more likely to feel safe and secure too.

We have created a comprehensive, 5 page guide with expanded information to ease the transition — for both you and your child. From drop-off routines to emotional support, this resource will help you feel more confident and calm during this big step.

👉 Download it now for just £2.99 and feel more confident in your next steps.

Settling Your Child Into Childcare

Stay and play sessions once or twice a week are a lovely way to build that familiarity. You’ll get a real feel for how things run (and know it’s not just a ‘show’ put on for the tour).

Before your child starts, they should be assigned a key person. This is your go-to – someone who’ll help you settle in, answer your questions, and support your return to work. Building that bond early can make a big difference.

Ask The Questions

It’s normal for little ones to pick up bugs in the early days – exposure to new germs helps build up their immunity. If you can, try to start them a few months before your return to work so you’re not juggling work deadlines and a poorly child.

Ask all the questions! There’s no such thing as a silly one. You’re not the expert here – the childcare team is – so lean on them.

You know your child better than anyone. When you're asked to fill in an All About Me form, don’t hold back! The more the team knows, the better they can prepare – from favourite toys to the best way to comfort them when they're upset (because yes, there will be tears at the start).

Goodbye Guilt, Hello Confidence

Drop-offs can be emotional. Trust your setting’s routine and try to keep things consistent. It’s heartbreaking to leave them upset, but often they settle within minutes – and you should always get a reassuring message, photo, or call to help you through the day.

And yes… you’ll miss them. That’s completely normal.

It might feel strange at first – you’ve been “mum” for so long, and now it’s time to rediscover a bit of you again. That transition can feel tough, but it’s okay. You're still everything to your child – and now you’re also a working mum balancing it all like a boss.

Can you work from home those first few weeks? Chat to your employer – you don’t ask, you don’t get!

And if grandparents or friends can help with shorter days, amazing. If not, try to pick up by 4pm in those early weeks – little ones often find full days a lot to manage.

You’ve Got This

Every child is different, and so is every parent – there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to starting childcare. If you’re feeling unsure, have more questions, or just need a little reassurance, we’re always here to help.

Mienna Jones, Championing Childhood

📞 Call us: 07359 380484

📧 Email us: hello@miennajones.com

🌐 Visit: www.miennajones.com