There are many reasons why parents choose to send their children to nursery. It’s great for their socialisation and preparation for “big school”, but it also means that parents are able to focus on other commitments, such as returning to work. Whether or not a nursery is a suitable option for your child and your family as a whole is entirely dependent on you; don’t let other people tell you that the time is or isn’t right. Only you can decide if your child is ready for nursery. Here’s some advice from a nursery in Richmond.
Whether you choose to send your child to nursery as a 3 month or 3-year-old, there will be a unique set of pros and cons. For instance, if they join when they’re a little older, they may struggle with separation anxiety and find it hard to be away from you. However, if you send them when they’re still a baby, you won’t be able to spend as much time with them and you may miss important milestones, like their first steps or first words.
Be sure to weigh up these pros and cons and visit a few different nurseries before you make a final decision. Make a list of your priorities when visiting the schools and ask lots of questions. For example, what’s the timetable like for the day and does that fit in with what your child is used to? Consider whether your child is ready by assessing how well they deal with things like following instructions, using the toilet, or playing with other children.
If you’re unsure as to whether or not your child is ready for nursery, you could ease them in slowly by attending some parent and baby groups in your local area. This will give your little one the chance to interact with other children in a learning environment, while still being close to you. It will allow them to start to develop their fine motor and sensory skills as well, through activities like dance and music.
Help your child get used to being away from you by leaving them with friends/relatives/babysitters every now and again, prolonging the amount time you’re away on each occasion. When talking to them about nursery, be sure to use lots of positive terminology so that they start to become excited. They will look to you for reassurance, so letting them see your concerns will only heighten their fear.