Sunshine & Settling In: Helping Children Feel Safe

Bonds at Nestlings are important

Summer is a time for exploration, sunshine, and new beginnings. But it can also be a season of change, especially for young children who are adjusting to a new environment, different routines, or time away from home for the first time.

At Nestlings, we understand that every child is unique, and transitions, no matter how small, can feel huge in their world. That’s why we take extra care during the settling in sessions and lead up to Summer departures to provide a soft, supportive landings for every child who walks through our doors.

Whether your little one is attending extra sessions during the holidays, settling in for the first time, or getting ready to say goodbye and head to "big school" - we're here to support the whole journey with warmth, care, and confidence-building.

☀️ 1. Familiar Faces, Even on New Days

Summer sessions can feel different to term-time routines. That's why we make sure children still see the people they know and trust. Our key people system ensures continuity, stability, and strong attachments that help your child feel secure even when everything else might be changing.

“Our son talked about his key worker every day over the summer. That constant presence made all the difference.”— Nestlings parent

🧸 2. Comfort Items Welcome

Teddies, dummies, blankets or even a scarf from mum or dad - these small comforts can offer huge reassurance. We encourage children to bring familiar items, especially during times of transition. It’s one more way to say: you’re safe here.

🕰️ 3. Flexible Beginnings

We always recommend arriving a few minutes early so your child can settle at their own pace. There's no rushing through the door, no pressure to separate before they're ready, just time to ease in with calm voices, open arms, and trusted routines.

💬 4. Open Ears and Open Hearts

Transitions can be emotional for parents too. Whether you’re preparing to leave your little one for the first time, or getting ready to say goodbye after years of watching them grow, we’re here for you as well. We’ll check in regularly, keep you updated, and always be ready to talk. We use a Parent App so you can receive regular updates throughout the day and check in whenever you want.

🌿 5. A Calm, Nature-Led Environment

Our spaces are gentle on the senses and rich with opportunities for discovery. Even in the excitement of summer, we maintain a rhythm that soothes and supports, whether your child is investigating the garden, painting in the shade, or curled up with a story.

🎓 6. Preparing for “Big School” – With Confidence and Care

For our oldest children, summer is a time of looking ahead. Many are preparing to leave Nestlings for the next big adventure: primary school. While this is a time of pride and excitement, it can also bring a mix of emotions.

Throughout the summer term, we gently support this transition by:

• Talking about school in positive, age-appropriate ways

• Reading books and sharing stories about new adventures

• Practising skills like changing shoes, carrying a tray, or packing a bag

• Encouraging independence in toileting, dressing, and expressing needs

• Supporting friendship-building and social confidence in group activities

Most importantly, we create space for every child to share how they’re feeling, and to feel proud of how far they’ve come at Nestlings. Their time with us builds them up ready to become a fledgling!

To celebrate this special moment, we also hold a Graduation Celebration to honour each child’s journey. With certificates, photos, songs, and heartfelt goodbyes, we send them off with smiles, happy tears, and all our best wishes for what lies ahead.

“The graduation was so beautiful and emotional—thank you for making our child’s last day so memorable.”— Nestlings parent

💛 A Gentle Start — and a Loving Goodbye

Whether you're joining us for the first time, spending a few summer days with us, or preparing to leave for school, our approach stays the same: children thrive when they feel safe, seen, and supported. We believe in beginnings that are soft, not stressful—and goodbyes that are full of pride, not pressure.

📩 Ready to Begin (or End) the Next Chapter?

We’re currently offering flexible summer sessions and settling-in visits for new families.If your child is heading off to school, get in touch to hear more about our transition sessions and holiday clubs—we’d love to have you join our Nest.

From first steps to first school bags, we’re here for it all.

Graduation 2024