New guidance emphasises honest, gradual approach to nursery preparation for children’s confidence

Expert guidance highlights the importance of open conversations, routines, and trust in easing children’s transition from home to nursery, fostering confidence rather than perfection.

Preparing a child for nursery begins well before the first September morning. The most helpful approach is to make the change understandable without turning nursery into a fantasy world. According to guidance from Gyermekút, the move from home to nursery works best when parents and staff show mutual openness, and when adults talk honestly with children about what will happen next.

Simple, concrete conversation helps. Adults can explain that there will be a classroom, teachers, other children, shared meals, play and rest, and that a parent will come back later. Gyermekút recommends linking those conversations to the child’s own questions and experiences, while reassuring them about anything that feels worrying. That means avoiding overpromising that every moment will be fun, because children may still feel tired, homesick or unsure on some days.

Experts also advise against using nursery as a threat. Phrases such as “you’ll learn that in nursery” or “the teacher will sort you out” can make the setting sound harsh rather than safe. Instead, parents are more likely to ease the transition if they express trust in the institution and in the adults who work there. The American Academy of Pediatrics says school readiness is not just about letters or numbers, but also about social, emotional and behavioural skills.

Routines matter too. Gyermekút says a gradual shift towards the nursery timetable can make the start less abrupt, including an earlier bedtime, keeping the bedtime story, and allowing enough time in the morning to get ready calmly. Other parenting guidance from GreatSchools and the National Association for the Education of Young Children also points to the value of predictable routines, practising social interaction and involving children in preparation. The aim is not perfection, but confidence: a child who knows what is coming is usually better placed to handle the change.