Preparing for kindergarten

Signs of readiness

Readiness does not show in age alone. Notice whether your child can separate from you briefly, shows interest in other children and can express their own needs. Some things only ripen in kindergarten itself – readiness is not a test you must pass beforehand.

Settling in gently

A gentle settling-in gives security. In many nurseries you stay at first, then there are first short separations that slowly grow longer – at your child pace. Please always say goodbye consciously and never sneak away; that undermines trust.

Accompanying separation pain

Crying at goodbye is normal and no sign that something is wrong. Keep the farewell short, warm and firm: I will come back after lunch – and then come on time. A familiar soft toy or family photo in the bag often comforts more than many words.

Supporting the start at home

You can prepare a lot at home: talk about kindergarten, visit it together beforehand, practise routines like dressing. Books about starting nursery help create mental images. This makes the new more familiar and less frightening.

Going along with the feelings

Transitions stir feelings in you too – pride, wistfulness, maybe guilt. That is normal. Your child senses your mood, so your calm confidence helps them most. You are not giving them away; you are opening a new world where they can grow.

Working with the nursery

You and the educators are a team. Share what helps your child, what comforts them, what frightens them. Ask how the day was and trust that there too are people who care for your child. This partnership carries you through bumpy beginnings.