Strange environment. Even if a child comes to nursery already having experience with separation from their mother (for example, being looked after by a nanny at home or often left with grandparents), leaving the home environment and entering a completely unfamiliar and different environment is a significant stress for them.

HOW TO EASE ADAPTATION?

It's important to understand that each child's adaptation is individual. Teachers strive to make the adaptation process as smooth as possible, but parents can also contribute significantly.

Routine. It's very important to bring your child to nursery every day, even if only for a few hours. This consistency helps the child adjust more easily to the new environment.

Positive. Speak positively about the nursery with your child. Communicate with the teachers, as this shows the child that these are trustworthy individuals. This is one of the most important elements for a smooth adaptation.

What is waiting for me? Tell your child what to expect each day. You can see the weekly plans in the Eliis system – talk with your child about the activities planned at the nursery. Emphasize the fun they will have with friends and teachers.

Total! Say goodbye quickly. Your child may cry, but rest assured – most children calm down quickly after their parents leave and have fun with their new friends. If you're worried, you can always call the teacher to check if your little one has settled down.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR NURSERY?

Reconsider your approach. Start with yourself. Parents' anxiety and doubts about the nursery can easily be sensed by the child.

Speak Positively. Talk to your child about what children do at the nursery and why it's fun. Emphasize activities your child enjoys or things they will learn.

Daily schedule. Find out the nursery's daily schedule before your child starts attending and gradually adjust your own schedule to closely match the nursery's routine.

Get used to separations. Before starting nursery, find opportunities to leave your child with grandparents, friends, or relatives for a few hours.

Build friendships. Maybe a neighbor's child will be in the same nursery group as yours? Arrange a playdate and let the children become friends.

Pretend Nursery. Read books about nursery or play role-playing games to help your child better prepare for the upcoming changes.

Familiarize yourself with the environment. Take a walk around the nursery with your child – tell them they will play in this yard and meet new friends here.

WHAT TO BRING TO NURSERY?

Indoor shoes. Have indoor shoes that are comfortable for the child. Shoes should have a non-slip sole.

Water bottle. Choose a water bottle that is comfortable for your child to hold. It should be easy to open and leak-proof to prevent spills.

Sleeping toy. During the adaptation period, we recommend having a soft toy – a friend that reminds the child of home and helps them calm down at nap time.

Rain clothes. We travel outside even in the rain, so to make splashing in puddles more fun, have rain clothes and suitable shoes.

Diapers. According to the need.

Pajamas for sleeping. For a comfortable sleep, we recommend having pajamas.

GOODBYE RITUAL

Parents' goodbyes when leaving the nursery are very important. To help the child feel safe and calm, always say goodbye rather than disappearing unnoticed. It's best to have a short, cheerful goodbye ritual that the child likes and includes physical contact (like a "high five" or "lightning bolt"). Introduce and use this ritual before starting nursery so that the child is familiar with it and trusts that parents always come back after saying goodbye.

It's normal for children to experience sleep disturbances, demand more attention, refuse to eat, have potty training setbacks, get sick more often, become irritable, or show increased aggression after starting nursery. ALL OF THIS WILL PASS.

Nevertheless, remember not to focus only on the negative aspects but also to notice and appreciate positive changes – maybe your child learned a new word, song, or game. It's important to recognize, celebrate, and take joy in even the small victories of the little ones.

KD ADAPTATION WEEK

DAY I. A child comes to KD accompanied by their mother or father and spends a few hours in the nursery with them. It is advisable for the family to arrive after breakfast and stay during morning circle time and activities. During activities, the child can explore, play, and is not required to participate. If possible, parents should leave for 5-10 minutes, but they must say goodbye and explain where they are going (e.g., to the car to get a toy, to get water). If parents leave without informing the child, they should return and explain. If it’s challenging to leave on the first day, parents are encouraged to stay together.

Day II. On the second day, the child comes to KD accompanied by their mother or father and spends a few hours in the nursery with them. The child gradually starts participating in morning circle time and activities if they want. During outdoor time, parents are encouraged to leave for 30-45 minutes but must say goodbye and explain where they are going. After outdoor time, the child goes home with the parents.

Day III. On the third day, the child says goodbye to their parents and goes with the teacher to have breakfast (if they eat breakfast at the nursery), participates in the morning circle, and joins in activities. If possible, the child also has lunch at the nursery on the third day.

IV day. On the fourth day, the child says goodbye to their parents and goes with the teacher to have breakfast (if they eat breakfast at the nursery), participates in the morning circle, and joins in activities. If the adaptation is going smoothly, it is recommended for the child to take a nap. After the nap, parents pick up the child and go home.

Day V. On the fifth day, the child says goodbye to their parents and goes with the teacher to have breakfast (if they eat breakfast at the nursery), participates in the morning circle, and joins in activities. If the adaptation is going smoothly, it is recommended for the child to take a nap. After the nap, parents pick up the child and go home.