Settling-In Week Checklist

Before You Start

Complete these before your child's first settling-in session.

• Settling-in schedule agreed with the nursery team
• Key person introduced at induction visit
• Completed all registration paperwork
• Shared child's routines, preferences and comfort items with key person
• Packed a comfort item from home
• Labelled all clothing and bag
• Arranged time off / flexibility for the settling-in period

Session 1 — Stay & Play

You stay with your child for the full session. No pressure — just explore together.

• Arrived on time and introduced yourselves to the key person
• Let your child lead — follow their curiosity
• Stayed calm and positive (children read our emotions)
• Noted what your child enjoyed / was anxious about
• Shared observations with the key person at the end

Session 2 — Short Separation

Try stepping out for 15–30 minutes while your child is settled.

• Said a confident, brief goodbye (don't linger)
• Stayed nearby and reachable by phone
• Came back at the agreed time without fuss
• Debriefed with key person on how the separation went

Session 3 — Building Up

Extend the time away. Aim for a full half-session without you.

• Settled your child with their key person before leaving
• Left promptly after a calm goodbye
• Resisted checking in unless nursery called
• Collected at the agreed time and praised your child warmly

End of First Week — Review

Take stock of how things are going before the full schedule begins.

• Spoken to key person about progress
• Discussed any concerns or adjustments needed
• Confirmed start date for full sessions
• Set up a daily communication routine (app / verbal handover)
• Celebrated your child's bravery — they've done brilliantly!