SETTLING IN AT KINDERGARTEN
Preparing for kindergarten can help make the transition smoother and more secure for both children and parents. We encourage you to talk positively about kindergarten at home and about all the exciting experiences your child will have.
We also recommend visiting the kindergarten before your child’s start date. This gives your child an opportunity to become familiar with the surroundings, the outdoor play area, and the staff.
Please feel free to contact us to arrange a visit before your child starts.
At Polarhagen Barnehage, each child and family is welcomed by a designated key person. The key person has a special responsibility for helping your child feel safe and secure during the settling-in period.
As your child develops a secure relationship with their key person, it will gradually become easier for them to build relationships with the other adults and children in the kindergarten.
The key person will introduce your child to the other children and will be available to support both your child and you as parents.
The key person will also provide information about the settling-in period, the kindergarten’s routines, daily schedule, and other practical matters.
SETTLING IN IN PRACTICE
As a starting point, we plan for three settling-in days, during which a parent or guardian stays at the kindergarten with the child.
However, we encourage all new parents to set aside additional days so that they can be available if their child needs more time to settle in. Families who have the opportunity are also very welcome to visit the kindergarten before the child officially starts.
- During the settling-in period, the child needs their parent or guardian nearby while developing a relationship with their key person.
- The child is gradually introduced to short periods of separation. These periods can be extended step by step as the child becomes more comfortable and secure with their key person.
- We recommend keeping the child’s days short during the initial settling-in period.
- The key person will actively work to build a safe and trusting relationship with the child, in close cooperation with the parents.
GOALS OF THE SETTLING-IN PERIOD
The goals are:
- To help the child become familiar with and comfortable in their new environment.
- To give the child time and opportunity to get to know their key person and develop a safe and trusting relationship.
- To help the child gradually become comfortable staying at the kindergarten without their parents.
- To provide the security the child needs to take part in play, exploration, and everyday activities at the kindergarten.
The kindergarten, in close cooperation with the parents, shall ensure that each child has a safe and positive start.
When a child starts kindergarten, the staff will provide close support during the initial period to help the child experience a sense of belonging and security while playing, exploring, and learning, in accordance with the Framework Plan for Kindergartens (Rammeplan for barnehagen).
SAYING GOODBYE AT DROP-OFF
Young children may react differently when separating from their parents at drop-off.
When you are ready to leave, it is important to make the handover clear and to say “goodbye” to your child. This helps your child gradually learn that even though Mum or Dad leaves, they will come back.
Although saying goodbye can sometimes feel difficult, it is better to have a clear and reassuring goodbye than to leave while your child is distracted.
Leaving without saying goodbye may make the child more watchful or anxious, as they may become worried that their parent could suddenly disappear again.
Try to keep the goodbye warm, calm, clear, and consistent. The staff will be there to comfort and support your child after you leave.
PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CONTACT US
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you would like to know how your child is doing after drop-off.
We are always available by phone or SMS.