Cutie Pies Nursery — Parent Resource
Little Steps, Big Settles:
Your Nursery Start Checklist
Everything you need to feel confident, prepared, and reassured as your little one begins their nursery journey.
Section 01
The Emotional Handover
Keep it short, calm & consistent
One hug, one reassuring phrase, one handover to their key person — then leave confidently. Children take emotional cues from you.
Name the plan simply
Tell them exactly what is happening: "I'm going to work, you're staying with [Name], and I'll be back after snack time." Predictable routines build safety.
Trust the nursery team
Lean on your educators to step in quickly with comfort and distraction. They are experts at building that secure, warm bond.
Never sneak away
Always say goodbye, even if it causes a brief tear. This teaches your child that separations are honest, safe, and always temporary.
Section 02
The First-Week Bag
A change of clothes
A clearly named spare outfit, including socks and underwear.
Weather-ready gear
A coat, hat, gloves, or wellies depending on the season.
A comfort item
A favourite small blanket, soft toy, or a laminated family photo.
Changing supplies
Nappies, wipes, and nappy cream if your child still needs them.
Feeding essentials
Milk, formula, or a clearly labelled water bottle.
Naptime comforts
Any specific sleep comforters permitted by the nursery.
Easy-change outfits
Extra leggings, joggers, and t-shirts for quick changes.
Medical needs
Any allergy or medical items alongside clear, written instructions.
Section 03
Your Week-by-Week Timeline
1
Week One
Big Feelings
Expect some clinginess and drop-off tears. This is a completely normal part of learning that nursery is a safe place.
2
Week Two
Building Familiarity
Your child will start recognising the staff, the daily room routine, and the goodbye pattern. Tears usually start to shorten here.
3–4
Weeks Three – Four
Finding a Rhythm
Most children begin settling significantly faster and showing newfound confidence as trust and routine take over.