Starting nursery is a significant milestone in family life, making the choice of the most suitable institution—one that understands both the child’s and the parents’ needs—an essential step in the process. But how do you make this decision? What criteria should guide you?
To support families preparing for this transition, Avenor organised the workshop My Child is Starting Nursery, specially designed for parents of children aged 1 to 3 who are about to begin their nursery journey.
We were delighted to welcome curious parents, to whom, alongside Andreea Hănescu – ICF AFF Accredited Coach, NeuroMindfulness Coach – and Avenor’s education and psychology specialists, we provided answers to the natural questions surrounding this important stage for the entire family. The meeting was interactive, offering us the opportunity to discuss all aspects of starting nursery – from parents’ emotions and concerns to the educational approach and curricular vision.
For families at the stage of selecting a nursery for their child, it often feels like stepping into unknown territory, unsure of where to begin. It is a period filled with emotions, uncertainties, and many unknowns.
“At the start of this journey, your own conviction as a parent that the time is right for this change should be your foundation. This will enable you to be a calm and reassuring presence for your child during their moments of uncertainty, which are entirely natural in this context. It will also help you communicate more effectively with educators, aiding them in understanding key aspects of your child’s development and play interests.
Early years education lays the foundation for the personal and academic development of the future adult, so it is worth investing our energy in finding an environment where the child feels safe to play freely, curious to explore the world, and eager to learn in an age-appropriate manner.
Additionally, I would add one more criterion, one that is not often discussed: How does the place make you feel the moment you step inside? A nursery may tick all the important boxes, yet the atmosphere and the feeling it gives you might not align with what you wish for yourself and your child.” – says Ioana Botez, Nursery Counsellor at Avenor and one of the event hosts.
When selecting a nursery for your child, here are some key elements to ensure you are on the right path:
Safety Measures: Before considering what your child will learn at nursery, you must be confident that they are in a safe environment.
Medical Triage and Medical Assistance: The presence of a nurse and a paediatrician helps efficiently manage situations with a high risk of contagion, as well as providing first aid in case of accidents.
Communication with the Nursery Team: Transparency in daily feedback, addressing delicate situations, and strengthening the family-nursery partnership significantly contribute to your well-being as a parent within this new community.
Curriculum: Understanding what your child learns at nursery and how it connects to the real world are key questions that should have clear answers when the nursery follows a structured curriculum designed to prepare children for the future.
Teaching Methods: The way children are supported in learning through play, exploration, and developing reflective skills after being exposed to new experiences brings the curriculum to life in the classroom.
