Settling-In

A gentle, child‑centred start to nursery life

Starting nursery is a big step for young children. At Hollywood Park, we take time to help every child feel safe, confident and ready to explore. Our settling‑in process is calm, flexible and shaped around each child’s needs, routines and personality.

We work closely with families to make the transition warm, predictable and emotionally secure.

Our Approach

We believe children settle best when they:

• feel welcomed and understood

• build a strong relationship with their key person

• explore at their own pace

• experience gentle, predictable routines

• have time to get used to new spaces and people

We never rush the settling‑in process. We follow the child.

Our Settling‑In Process

We follow a simple, child‑centred sequence:

1. First Visit – One Hour With Parents

Your child begins with a one‑hour visit where you stay with them. This helps them:

• explore the environment with a familiar adult

• meet staff and other children

• begin building trust with their key person

• feel safe in the space

This visit is calm, gentle and focused on helping your child feel secure.

2. Second Visit – Short Session Without Parents

When your child is ready, we offer a short visit without a parent present. This is usually up to two hours, depending on how your child manages the separation.

We watch closely to see how your child responds and adjust the pace accordingly.

3. Gradual Build‑Up

Children then gradually build up to their full session. This might take:

• a few days

• a week

• or longer

Every child is different, and we follow their lead. We never rush the process.

Stay‑and‑Play Sessions

We offer stay‑and‑play sessions throughout the year. These sessions help children begin to feel comfortable in the environment before their formal settling‑in visits.

They are especially helpful for:

• children who need extra time to warm up

• families who want to get to know the space

• children who benefit from seeing the room with a parent present

Please check the website for upcoming stay‑and‑play dates.

Your Child’s Key Person

Every child has a key person who:

• builds a strong, attuned relationship

• supports your child’s emotional wellbeing

• helps them settle into routines

• shares information with you

• celebrates your child’s strengths and progress

Your key person is your main point of contact throughout settling‑in and beyond.

Supporting Children with SEND

Children with SEND may need additional support during transitions. We offer:

• extra visits

• photo books

• visual supports

• predictable routines

• close communication with families

• gentle, child‑centred planning

We work with families and professionals to make settling‑in safe, calm and supportive.

What Families Can Expect

During settling‑in, we will:

• check in with you regularly

• share how your child is feeling

• celebrate small steps

• adjust the plan if needed

• make sure you feel confident and informed

We want families to feel just as settled as their children.

A Calm Start to Nursery Life

Our aim is simple: to help your child feel safe, happy and ready to explore.

Settling‑in is the beginning of their journey with us — and we take great care to make it a positive, gentle experience.