Their first day at nursery is one of those once-in-a-lifetime moments that you’ll always remember. It’s a magical beginning of their learning journey and their social one too – and even though it may feel a little daunting, we already know they’ve got so many amazing moments ahead. So, you’ve packed their bag, labelled their spare clothes, and tried to hold it together since the moment you enrolled them… Here's how to handle it now the day is looming. For some little ones, they’ll never have been away from their parents since they were born into the world and may have some separation anxiety – for others, they probably won’t even acknowledge the change. Every little one handles this step in a different way. But with a little know-how and gentle encouragement, they’ll have the best first day ever.
Nursery is a chance to make new tiny friends, explore new routines and grow in confidence. But like any first, it can come with mixed feelings. And that’s okay.
Excitement & Curiosity
Children are so full of curiosity – their constant little questions and funny outbursts. So when you pop them into a room full of new toys, books, songs and snacks? It’s an adventure waiting to happen. You might find your little one charging through the door, thrilled at the thought of making their first masterpiece or singing along with new friends.
Help build this excitement by getting them involved in the preparations. Let them choose their new personalised backpack (we’ve got super cute and colourful rainbow designs and roarsome dino ones too) or show them their name adorning a lunch bag that’s quite literally all theirs. These small touches will help them to feel seen, special and ready to bound through the doors.
Separation Anxiety
Of course, some toddlers (and parents!) feel nervous on that first goodbye. That unfamiliar moment of waving from the doorway can feel enormous. This is where comfort really matters.
Consider packing a snuggly soft toy, blanket or comforter in their bag, something to hold during quieter moments or nap time snoozes that’ll remind them of home. Our backpacks come with a Bravery Button – a super cute pin they can press whenever they miss you or need a confidence boost. It’s a gentle reminder they’re brave, and loved, and that you'll be there at the end of the day.
The Need for Reassurance
It’s natural for your little one to need extra words of positivity, especially in those early days. They’re learning that nursery is a safe place, filled with kind grown-ups, fun little friends and lots of amazing experiences.
Trust the Process
Every child adapts at their own pace. Some will be playing happily within minutes; others may need a few days (or weeks) to settle and that’s totally ok. Keep the communication open with nursery staff, check in on how they’re doing, and most of all, remind yourself: this is a beautiful new chapter.
Nursery is where so many firsts happen – first friends, first glittery artworks, first stories they’ll beg to hear again and again. And at My 1st Years we’re here to help celebrate them all and hold onto them moments forever.
Shop Our Back-to-School Collection
Not just for the big kids – our back-to-school collection is for the miniest newbies too. In our collection you’ll find all the essentials that tots need to make it through the nursery doors as organised as can be. From personalised backpacks to matching bottles – you’re sure to find it at My 1st Years.