LIFESTYLE: KNOWING WHETHER YOUR CHILD IS READY FOR NURSERY



The question of what age is the most appropriate for sending your child to nursery has no easy answer. There isn’t a universal option that caters to all children and all parents, as it really depends on the unique circumstances of each family. Perhaps you’d like to encourage your child to meet and interact with other children their age, in a structured learning environment. Maybe you’d like to get them ready for school so it doesn’t seem as daunting when they move into a Reception class. You might just need some form of childcare so that you can focus on your work commitments during the day. There are clearly many different reasons why a parent may choose nursery as an option. Here are some tips from an independent nursery school in Somerset.

For those of you who are concerned that your child is not ready for nursery, you should know that whatever age you choose to send them will bring you a unique set of advantages and disadvantages. While you might feel that you’re missing out on a lot of time with your baby if you send them to nursery when they’re just a few months old, it allows them to become accustomed to being separated from you. On the other hand, if you wait until they’re two or three years old, they might find it a lot harder to be away from you. Of course, all children are different, and many toddlers settle in well as they are just starting to become independent and figure out ways to keep themselves busy.

Most nurseries don’t tend to accept babies under the age of three months, but you might be able to find one or two exceptions. Younger children have additional needs, so make sure you do plenty of research around your local nurseries so that you are 100% happy with your decision and your child is receiving the appropriate level of care. You know your child better than anyone so only you can decide what’s truly best for them. Don’t succumb to pressure from other parents or feel like other people are judging you, because their circumstances will be completely different to yours. 

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