Creative Learning Activities
Safe Learning Environment
Parent Partnership Approach
How We Support Your Preschool Settling In
Rowlands Avenue Preschool understands that every child settles into preschool differently, which is why we take a patient, child-focused approach from the very beginning. We work closely with families to build confidence, create familiar routines and help children feel safe, happy and ready to enjoy their new environment. Our experienced team is here to provide reassurance, guidance and ongoing support throughout every stage of the settling-in journey.
A Five-Step Path to a Confident Start
Step 1: Before You Join
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Register and Meet the Manager: Visit our preschool, explore the learning spaces, discuss sessions and funding, and ask any questions before securing your child's place.
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Step 2: One Week Before
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Tell Us About Your Child: Complete an all-about-me form with important information such as allergies, dietary needs, sleep routines, comforters and your child's individual preferences.
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Step 3: Settling-In Visits
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Two Short Visits Together: Enjoy two relaxed visits with your child, giving them the chance to meet their key person, explore the setting and become familiar with their new surroundings.
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Step 4: The First Session
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A Calm, Play-Led Welcome: Your child attends their first full session, where we focus on helping them feel safe, supported and confident through engaging play and gentle encouragement.
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Step 5: Ongoing Support
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Daily Updates and Consistent Routines: We keep you informed about your child's day while helping them build familiar routines that encourage confidence, learning and independence.
Dedicated Support For Your Child
Every child is paired with a dedicated key person from the moment they join Rowlands Avenue Preschool, providing a familiar face and a trusted point of contact between home and preschool. We support your child's learning through the EYFS curriculum, tailoring activities around their individual interests. Our key person guides your child through each visit, answers your questions, shares daily updates and works closely with your family to provide ongoing support, reassurance and a strong connection from the start.
What To Expect
Starting preschool is a big step, and every child responds differently. Some children settle quickly, while others need a little more time and reassurance. We’re here to support you and your child throughout the process.
If Your Child Cries At Drop-Off
It’s completely normal for children to feel emotional when separating from parents, and it is one of the most common parts of starting preschool. Our experienced team provides gentle support and helps children feel comfortable once you leave.
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Keep goodbyes short, warm and confident.
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Give your child a clear point of when you’ll return.
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Avoid lingering, as this can make the goodbye harder.
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Ask us about an additional visit if your child needs more time.
Signs Your Child Is Settling In
Every child finds their own rhythm, but many positive signs show they are becoming comfortable and confident.
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They talk about their key person or new friends by name.
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Goodbyes become quicker and calmer over time.
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They bring home stories, drawings or new words.
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They start looking forward to coming back.
Preparing For Your Child's First Day
A few simple preparations can help your child feel comfortable, confident and ready to begin their preschool journey.
Pack Their Essentials
Bring a named bag with spare clothes and a sun hat or wellies depending on the season, along with any comforter your child uses to feel secure.
Share Important Details
Let us know about any allergies, dietary requirements or preferences in advance, so we can provide suitable and healthy snacks for your child.
Read Together At Home
Books about starting preschool can help your child understand what to expect. Our team can also recommend stories to support conversations at home.
Talk About Their New Adventure
Help your child feel excited by chatting about making new friends, exploring the garden, enjoying activities and discovering their new environment.
Keep Communication Open
We welcome parents to visit, stay for a session or share their skills and experiences, helping us build a strong partnership with families.
Find Out About Funded Hours
Eligible two, three and four-year-olds may be able to access funded places. Speak to our team to learn more about available options.
My son runs into nursery every day, so excited to see his key worker and friends. It's a lovely environment with people I trust and admire, and more importantly, who my children have respect for.
Yolanda N · Rowlands Avenue Preschool Parent