Settling in at Into-Play
How we help your child, and you, feel at home from the very first visit.
Free intro sessions, with a key person by their side
From the very beginning we do our utmost to help your child settle. Every child has well-structured intro sessions, free of charge, before they start, so they can get to know us at a gentle pace. You are welcome to come and spend as much time with our team as you like.
Your child is cared for by their own key person, who builds a close relationship with them and with you. This relationship often lasts for years, and in our experience some last a lifetime.
A few things that help at home
Small things you can do to help your child feel ready for their first days with us.
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Bring a comfort item
A familiar teddy, blanket or dummy from home can be a real comfort in the early days.
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Keep goodbyes short
A quick, calm and confident goodbye helps your child settle faster than a long one.
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Talk about nursery
Chat about nursery at home in a positive way, so it feels like something to look forward to.
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Share their routine
Tell your child’s key person about naps, feeds and favourite things, so we can follow what they know.
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Practise short separations
Leaving your child with a trusted friend or relative for short spells can help them get used to being apart.
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Keep to a routine
Regular mealtimes and bedtimes in the weeks before starting help your child feel secure.
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Label their things
Pop a name on coats, bottles and comforters so nothing gets mixed up or goes missing.
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Arrive with time to spare
A calm, unrushed drop-off sets a happy tone for the whole day.
Settling in: your questions answered
The questions parents ask most about their child starting with us.
How long does it take for a child to settle in?
Every child is different, and their intro sessions simply carry on until they are settled. Many settle sooner than families expect. We never rush it.
Can I stay during the intro sessions?
Yes. You are welcome to stay for as long as helps, and to spend as much time with our team as you like while your child gets to know us.
What should my child bring on their first day?
A comfort item from home, like a favourite teddy or blanket, can really help. Please pop your child’s name on their coat, bottles and comforters so nothing gets mixed up. All meals and snacks are provided.
What if my child needs longer to settle?
That is absolutely fine. Their intro sessions carry on until they are settled, and their key person will guide the pace with you.
How will I know how my child is getting on?
Through the Famly app we share photos, updates, meals and naps during the day, and you can message the room team whenever you like. Your child’s key person is always happy to chat at drop-off and pick-up too.
Come and have a look around
Ask us anything, or arrange a show round at Barnwood or The Quays. We will make you and your child very welcome.

