Supporting smooth transitions: helping new children settle

• Ideal for early years practitioners supporting children during transitions.

Starting nursery is a significant milestone for children and families. A positive settling-in experience helps children feel safe, secure, and confident, laying the foundations for successful learning, emotional wellbeing, and strong relationships throughout their early years journey.

• Understand why a positive settling-in process is essential for children's emotional wellbeing
• Recognise the important role of the key worker during transitions
• Identify signs of separation anxiety and respond with confidence and empathy
• Use practical strategies to help children settle into new routines and environments
• Build positive partnerships with parents and carers throughout the transition process
• Create welcoming, inclusive environments where every child feels safe and valued

1. 1Understanding the Settling-In Process
2. 2The Role of the Key Worker
3. 3Recognising Separation Anxiety
4. 4Practical Strategies for Successful Transitions
5. 5Building Positive Relationships with Parents
6. 6Creating a Welcoming Environment