You can help your child feel confident and ready by encouraging simple independence skills such as using the toilet on their own, washing their hands, putting on and taking off their coat and beginning to manage their own belongings. Talking together about Nursery, sharing stories, and giving your child opportunities to play with others can also help them feel secure and excited about this new chapter. We encourage all of our families to attend our open evenings, stay and play and drop-in sessions to start to build that crucial relationship with staff from the earliest starting point. You will always be made most welcome!

Modelling clear, confident language is one of the simplest and most effective ways to help your child grow as a communicator. When your little one uses an early or incomplete word, there's no need to correct them or ask them to repeat it. Instead, gently model the full version back to them. For example, if they say "bic bic", you might respond with, "Yes, you'd like a biscuit."

Top Tips for Language Growth

Model full words and sentences so your child hears clear language.
Add a little extra detail when you respond: "Big red bus" instead of just "bus."
Give them time to talk, even if they need a moment to find their words.
Talk throughout the day about what you're doing, seeing, and noticing.
Follow their interests — children learn best when they're engaged and curious.
Creating a language-rich environment at home helps build confidence, vocabulary, and strong communication skills that will support them throughout their early years.

Watch the dad talk to his daughter about what they see and hear on their journey to the park. He mimics the sounds of what he sees and gets his daughter to join in too.