Starting a new nursery

Dear my bravest girl,

Today, you started your new nursery. Umma and Papa have decided for you a hybrid model — splitting the week between two nurseries. On Mondays and Tuesdays, you’ll attend at this new setting, while Wednesday through Friday you’ll return to your current, familiar nursery. We chose this approach hoping it would provide a smooth, gentle transition into your new environment and a new weekly rhythm.

Leading up to this day

Umma was on a rollercoaster of emotions - a mix of excitement and anxiety. Excitement at the thought of you expanding your horizons, gaining new experiences, and enjoying a wider variety of activities for this important early years development. But also worry, because you didn’t know anyone here yet and I feared you might feel upset, confused, or scared.

In the days before, I tried to prepare you gently.

• I regularly talked about the "new nursery" as a fun place where you could play with new toys, meet new friends, and do new exciting activities.

• I mentioned the names of the key workers at the new nursery in our conversations so that you can start to relate to specific people at the place.

• Last night, I got you involved in packing your little bag lunchbox that umma got for you to mark this amazing milestone.

On the day

We arrived at 8:30am for breakfast club and I stayed until around 10:30am.

At first, I stayed closely with you, offering your comfort and reassurance.

Then gradually I was able to step back and let you explore the space and activities on your own. When I first tried to say goodbye “Have fun, and Umma will pick you up later” you immediately understood, clung tightly to me, and cried. However, a little later, you saw another girl happily waving goodbye to her dad. You then turned to me, waving your little hands with a cheerful “Bye Mama.” I seized the moment to say my proper goodbye to you, give you massive hugs and kisses, and left.

Since then, I’ve been working from home with my phone unmuted at my side, feeling nervous and worried. To my great surprise, the phone has stayed silent and now it’s already 3pm. My worry has slowly turned into relief and joy, and I am filled with immense pride in this wonderfully brave girl we have raised.

Of course, we’ll need to keep an eye on how you settle in during your second and third day next week. But for now, my heart is full of joy and excitement for all the new adventures, friendships, and discoveries that lie ahead for you.

From proud umma x

02 Sept 2025