Before starting the nursery, initially all babies should visit the nursery to meet their key person. This is a time to share information about the child and the nursery. For the first few days of the settling in process, it is preferable for the parent/carer to be available on the premise or nearby, giving the child an opportunity to gradually build up to full nursery hours. Having said that, we encourage parents to proceed with the separation process as soon as it is suitable for the child to rely on herself in handling her emotions. New children should be admitted gradually. The key-person should be there to warmly greet the child (using child’s name) and parents/carers. The key-person should then spend some time supporting the child, reassuring parents/carers and organising the settling-in process. Other staff may be introduced to the child and parents/carers. We seek to make the whole experience of starting nursery as positive as possible for both the child and the parents. In order to achieve this, the process below forges a guideline only and will be adjusted to suit each child’s individual needs. After all, the best approach for the parent and the child is what they both agree on together with the teacher on a daily basis before they leave the nursery. First day | We suggest that parent does not leave the child at all on the first day, but rather spend approximately half an hour to an hour with the child playing with them in their new classroom. Help them to familiarize themselves with the bathrooms, their favorite areas and activities as well as get to know their teachers and friends. Second day | Parent makes time to spend around 20 minutes to half an hour playing with the child in the classroom and attempt to leave the room for the same amount of time. Parentensures to saya quick goodbye and reassure the child that she will be nearby and she will come to pick him up. Leaving an item of the parent’s own belongings with the child can often be a good idea. Parent can stay in reception but ensures to return to the class on time as promised to the child. Third day | Once again, the parent takes time to stay a while with the child, engaging them in an activity they enjoy. After approximately 10-15 minutes, she says a quick goodbye. The goodbye really has to be quick otherwise the child will extend his distress seeking his parent to stay. On this day, the parents should arrange with the teacher how long the child should be left. On the following days, the time for the child at the nursery will be building up away from the parent slowly giving him confidence that the parent will for sure return to pick him up. Parents are kindly asked to stay contactable and close to the nursery while their child is left at the nursery during the settling-in period.