Your child starting nursery can be a daunting prospect for parents. Some parents choose to send their child to nursery because of work commitments and some simply want their child to start learning and developing their social skills. Whatever your reason, here is some helpful advice from a Montessori Nursery School in London…
What age should children start nursery?
The majority of nurseries accept children from the age of three months to five years, however some pre-schools or playgroups, may require children to be over two. It is best to check the admission requirements with your local nurseries. When it comes to deciding the right age for your child, it is best to trust your instincts and look for signs. For example, if your child has started to try things on their own, become more curious and developed an interest in other children, then these are all good signs that your child is ready to start nursery.
Which nursery do we choose?
The nursery you choose is very much down to your individual circumstances; however it is important that you visit a few in your local area to give you a good comparison. This will help you to find the nursery most suited to your child’s needs. Before you visit, make a list of all the things that are important to you and your child. It is a good idea to take your child with you on your visits to see how they interact in each new environment.
What questions should we ask?
Don’t forget to write down any questions you may have before visiting nurseries. Be sure to include questions about meal times, activities and nap times (if required), to understand exactly what a typical day will look like. This will help you to determine if their schedule will suit your child’s current routine. You may also wish to ask questions about what is provided by the nursey, for example, uniform, meals, nappies or potties.
What if I am still uncertain?
If you are still uncertain, but would like to test out a similar environment, you could look into local parent and baby or toddler groups. These groups will not only give you a chance to meet other parents, but they will also provide an opportunity for your child to socialise with other children and learn through activities such as music and dance.
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