Starting school is a really exciting milestone, but for many children and families it can also feel like a big change. The move into Reception doesn’t just happen on the first day of term its much more of a gradual process that works best when children,families,nursery staff and school staff are involved. When transition is done well, children don’t feel like they are starting from scratch. They feel familiar, confident, and supported.

Transition is a process, not a moment

Every child is different. Some children are ready to walk into a school setting with confidence, while others need a bit more time to adjust to new routines and environments.

That’s completely normal.

Transition isn’t about rushing children to be “ready for school” by a certain date. It’s about helping them build familiarity and confidence over time so the change feels manageable and positive.

Why working together matters

Children settle best when the adults around them are communicating well and sharing information.

This includes:

• Nurseries sharing what they know about each child
• Schools listening to families and early years practitioners
• Parents feeling involved and informed throughout the process
• Consistent messages across all settings

When this happens, children benefit from continuity. They arrive at school already known, rather than being seen as a “new start”.

Families play a key role

Parents and carers know their child better than anyone. The small details they share—what comforts their child, what interests them, how they respond to change—are really valuable in helping schools support a smooth transition.

Many families are also unsure what “school readiness” actually means. It’s not about formal learning or academic skills. Instead, it’s about building independence, confidence, and emotional security.

This might include things like:

• Being able to separate from a familiar adult
• Managing simple self-care such as coats or toileting
• Listening and joining in during group activities
• Developing confidence in new social situations

These skills develop gradually through everyday experiences, not overnight.

Helping children feel prepared

There are lots of simple things that help children feel more confident about starting school. Visiting the new setting, talking positively about school, and becoming familiar with routines can all make a difference.

What’s most important is that children feel safe and supported throughout this process. There is no pressure for everything to be perfect before they start—nursery and school will continue to build on these skills together.

Even after children start Reception, they are still settling in. The first term is a key part of the transition process as children adjust to new adults, new routines, and a different environment.

Good transition doesn’t end in September. It continues as children build relationships and confidence in their new setting.

When nurseries, schools, and families work together, children feel it. They arrive at school with a sense of familiarity and trust, which helps them settle more easily and feel ready to learn.

Strong relationships and open communication make all the difference.

The post Getting Ready for Reception: Why Transition is Something We Do Together appeared first on Witty Kiddies Nurseries.

Messy Play and Early Years.

At first glance, messy play can look exactly like the name suggests ….. messy.

Paint on sleeves, sand in shoes, mud on wellies , a tray of something that looks suspiciously chaotic. You may even wonder what is my child actually learning? Is there a purpose behind it? Messy Play is far more than “just making a mess”. It is one of the most powerful ways young children learn about the world.

Messy play involves children exploring materials using their senses, especially touch. This might include :

• Water, sand or mud
• Paint, clay or playdough
• Shredded paper, natural materials or loose parts
• Cornflour goop and other sensory mixtures.

As described in Messy Play in the Early Years , messy play is about the process and not necessarily the product so at Witty Kiddies it is not about creating the perfect picture or item. Instead it is about what the children discover through every squeeze, pour, splatter, scoop and smear. Messy materials are wonderfully unpredictable in the way that they move, drip, stick and splatter. An unpredictability that sparks curiosity and curiosity is the foundation of learning.

When children are immersed in sensory play, their brains are making connections. They are developing:

Cognitive skills : through experimenting and problem-solving
Language skills : as they describe textures and share ideas
Fine motor strength : through squeezing, pouring and manipulating materials
Emotional resilience : by tolerating new sensations and managing uncertainty

For some children, messy play is energising and exciting.
For others, it is calming and regulating.

Both experiences are valuable.

Why We Prioritise Messy Play at Nursery

As a nursery, our role is to create rich learning environments that prepare children not just for school — but for life.

Messy play supports:

• Independence
• Curiosity
• Creative thinking
• Risk assessment
• Self-regulation
• Confidence in exploring the unknown

We carefully plan environments that allow children to explore safely and meaningfully. While the play may look spontaneous, the thinking behind it is intentional.We also understand that some children need time. Not every child dives straight in — and that’s okay. Learning to approach new textures gradually is part of emotional growth. The aim is not to create a perfect end product. It is to allow children to experience the process of discovery.

Supporting Messy Play at Home

You don’t need elaborate setups or expensive resources. Simple experiences can be just as powerful.

You might try:

• Baking together (mixing, pouring, kneading)
• Water play in the bath with cups and containers
• A tray of dry rice or oats for scooping and pouring
• Mud, sand or natural materials outdoors

A few helpful tips:

• Dress for mess — it reduces stress for everyone.
• Set clear boundaries (“The sand stays in the tray.”).
• Allow time without rushing the clean-up.
• Focus on the exploration, not the outcome.

• Getting Ready for Reception: Why Transition is Something We Do Together
• Messy Play and Early Years.
• How to Potty Train Your Toddler
• Graduation – Class of 2025
• Father’s Day

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The post Messy Play and Early Years. appeared first on Witty Kiddies Nurseries.

Potty training is an exciting milestone for both parents and children. Learning to use the potty is a new skill for your little one, and it will happen when they are physically and developmentally ready.

When Should You Start Potty Training?

Did you know that by the age of one, most babies have stopped doing night-time poos? By age two, some children may even have a dry day, although this is still quite early. By age three, around 9 out of 10 children are dry most days, although the odd accident is still very common, especially when they are excited, upset, or completely absorbed in play.

By age four, most children are reliably dry during the day. Night-time dryness usually takes a little longer. Many children achieve this between the ages of three and five, but it’s completely normal for some children to take longer ,in fact, around 1 in 5 still occasionally wet the bed.

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So the big question is… when should you start potty training?

Remember, you cannot force your little one to use the potty. If they are not ready, it simply won’t work. However, every child will reach that stage in their own time.

Most parents begin potty training between the ages of two and two-and-a-half, but there is no single “right” time. Some families prefer to start in the summer when lighter clothing makes accidents easier to manage.

It’s helpful to start potty training during a time when there are minimal disruptions or big changes in your child’s routine. Consistency is key.

Signs your child might be ready

There are several signs that your child may be developing bladder control:

They recognise when their nappy is wet or dirty
They tell you when they are doing a wee or poo
They fidget, squat, or go somewhere quiet when they need to go
They may start telling you they need a wee
They can sit down and stand up independently (which helps with getting on and off the potty)

If your little one is showing several of these signs, it might be time to start introducing the potty.

Getting Ready for Potty Training

Before you begin potty training, you can start helping your child understand what is happening during nappy changes.

Talk to them about wees and poos during changes
Change them in the bathroom so they begin to associate it with going to the toilet
Use toys or role play to show how a potty is used
Let them sit on the potty occasionally to get used to it (even if nothing happens)

This early introduction helps the potty feel like a normal and familiar part of daily life.

Starting Potty Training

Once you feel your child is ready, it’s time to begin.

Keep a potty somewhere easy to reach. If your bathroom is upstairs, it can be helpful to have another potty downstairs so your child can get to it quickly.

Encourage your child to sit on the potty at natural times during the day, such as:

After meals
Before bath time
Before leaving the house

A small book or toy can help them sit comfortably for a moment without feeling pressured.

If your child tends to go at regular times, you can try leaving the nappy off and gently suggesting they use the potty during those times.

Accidents will happen and that’s completely normal. Try to stay calm and reassuring. The more relaxed you are, the less anxious your child will feel about trying again.

Some families like to use sticker charts as encouragement. Praise and encouragement can be very motivating, but try to keep rewards simple , stickers rather than sweets are a great option.

It also helps if your child is wearing easy to remove clothing, such as trousers or leggings with elastic waistbands. Avoid tights, zips, or overalls while they are learning.

You may also choose to use potty training pants or pull-ups. These act as a helpful transition between nappies and underwear. They don’t absorb as much as a nappy, which can help your child notice when they are wet.

What About Night-Time?

Focus on daytime potty training first before removing nappies at night.

If you notice that your child’s nappy is dry or only slightly damp in the mornings for several days in a row, they may be ready to try sleeping without one.

There will almost certainly be a few accidents at first, so using a waterproof mattress protector is a good idea.

Encourage your child to use the potty before bedtime and keep it nearby in case they need it during the night.

If night-time training doesn’t go smoothly, that’s okay. Simply return to using nappies at night for a little while longer and try again in a few weeks.

Potty training is a big milestone, but every child learns at their own pace. With patience, encouragement, and plenty of reassurance, your little one will get there.

• Getting Ready for Reception: Why Transition is Something We Do Together
• Messy Play and Early Years.
• How to Potty Train Your Toddler
• Graduation – Class of 2025
• Father’s Day

The post How to Potty Train Your Toddler appeared first on Witty Kiddies Nurseries.

The event began with a warm welcome speech from our Deputy Manager, setting the tone for the day, then the graduating class did a performance. It was an event to remember! The party concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks from our Admin team. The Medway Children and Family Hubs were also in attendance to support parents with any questions regarding the transition to reception, offering helpful resources and guidance.

Our graduates looked wonderful in their colourful jungle costumes during their performance, and afterwards, they changed into their graduation gowns for the formal part of the ceremony. A touching highlight of the day was the children’s presentation, where they sang a special goodbye song, marking their transition to the next stage of learning.

The celebration continued with lots of fun and laughter. The children enjoyed playing in the bouncing castle and danced joyfully to lovely music, adding to the lively and festive atmosphere. There was also delicious food and treats for children, parents, and staff to enjoy.

It was a beautiful celebration of growth, achievements, and new beginnings. Congratulations to all our amazing graduates — we are so proud of you!

The post Graduation – Class of 2025 appeared first on Witty Kiddies Nurseries.

The nursery was beautifully decorated with balloons and Father’s Day themed artwork, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. Families had the opportunity to bond through shared play, laughter, and meaningful moments.

To mark the occasion, snacks and chocolates were provided for everyone to enjoy. In the days leading up to the event, the children created handmade Father’s Day cards, which they took home to present to their dads and granddads — a thoughtful surprise filled with love and creativity.

It was a special celebration of the important role fathers and grandfathers play in our children’s lives and a wonderful opportunity to strengthen the relationship between home and nursery.

The post Father’s Day appeared first on Witty Kiddies Nurseries.

Throughout the day, the children participated in various hands-on activities. They helped mix and bake a commemorative cake with support from practitioners, providing them with opportunities to develop both their practical and communication skills. As part of our effort to bring history to life, children listened to age-appropriate stories about the army and the bravery of soldiers during the war.

Creative expression was a key part of the Victory in Europe day: some children painted Union Jack flags, others drew pictures of soldiers, and a number of them chose to salute in tribute. These activities not only supported their understanding of historical events but also encouraged respect, empathy, and pride.

The celebration was a meaningful and memorable experience for everyone involved, reinforcing our commitment to helping children learn through themed, real-world experiences in a nurturing environment.

The post Victory in Europe Day (VE Day) News appeared first on Witty Kiddies Nurseries.

The New Einstein’s Academy offers an innovative program for children. The curriculum is designed to empower the children through social interaction, play, discussion, reflection, and creativity. It is the best preschool in Chicago. The daily program of New Einstein’s Academy includes free play, hands-on activities, many learning and outdoor activities. The preschool also goes on field trips on a bi-monthly basis.

It's always better to start them on easier books, because then they feel successful, and that spurs them on, so they'll read more.

John Doe Tweet

Quinn says. Dr. Seuss books, with their rhymes and simple words, are perfect for this age, Quinn says. Kids learn through repetition, so read the same favorite books over and over, ask questions, and encourage your child to say simple words aloud. Throughout the day, have her say the words she sees on street signs, billboards, and computer screens, or have her search for high-frequency words in a magazine.

Recent Posts

• Getting Ready for Reception: Why Transition is Something We Do Together
• Messy Play and Early Years.
• How to Potty Train Your Toddler
• Graduation – Class of 2025
• Father’s Day

They will also write short, simple sentences such as “The cat ran home.” Keep a special box or bin at home filled with writing materials (crayons, pencils, markers, paper, and notepads) so your child can practice writing simple sentences about special things he’s done or seen during the day. Ask about what he’s written, and have him read it aloud. Offer encouragement by displaying his writings on the refrigerator or on her bedroom wall.

Kids this age will learn to recognize, write, order, and count objects up to the number 30. They will be able to add and subtract small numbers (add with a sum of 10 or less and subtract from 10 or less); this focus on addition and subtraction will continue through second grade.

Numbers and Counting

Get your kindergartner to look for the numbers one through 30 in magazines and newspapers. He can cut them out, glue them on paper, and put them in order. When you’re riding in the car or waiting in line, play a game of “What comes next?” Give your child a number and ask him to identify the following number. At bedtime, ask him to count how many stuffed animals he has, and ask, “How many books about dogs do you have? How fast can you count them?” Take two of these books away and ask, “How many are left?”

• Kids this age will learn to recognize, write, order, and count objects up to the number 30.
• They will be able to add and subtract small numbers (add with a sum of 10 or less and subtract from 10 or less); this focus on addition and subtraction will continue through second grade.
• Kids will learn how to name and describe common shapes (circle, square, triangle, rectangle) and to identify, sort, and classify objects by color, size, and shape.

Help your child understand the concept of time by saying what time it is during routine activities. Use and explain words like morning, noon, night, yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Make a timeline together showing a typical day, with drawings of regular events and the time of day written beneath each one.

In addition to learning about time, 5- and 6-year-olds can name the four seasons, so chart changes in the weather together on a special weather calendar to help your child learn how the seasons change. Find pictures illustrating the seasons (colorful leaves, snow, blooming flowers) and discuss what your child sees in them. Talk about what clothing you can both wear during each season.

The post What can tracks teach kids? Preschool science activities are a big deal appeared first on Witty Kiddies Nurseries.

The New Einstein’s Academy offers an innovative program for children. The curriculum is designed to empower the children through social interaction, play, discussion, reflection, and creativity. It is the best preschool in Chicago. The daily program of New Einstein’s Academy includes free play, hands-on activities, many learning and outdoor activities. The preschool also goes on field trips on a bi-monthly basis.

It's always better to start them on easier books, because then they feel successful, and that spurs them on, so they'll read more.

John Doe Tweet

Quinn says. Dr. Seuss books, with their rhymes and simple words, are perfect for this age, Quinn says. Kids learn through repetition, so read the same favorite books over and over, ask questions, and encourage your child to say simple words aloud. Throughout the day, have her say the words she sees on street signs, billboards, and computer screens, or have her search for high-frequency words in a magazine.

Recent Posts

• Getting Ready for Reception: Why Transition is Something We Do Together
• Messy Play and Early Years.
• How to Potty Train Your Toddler
• Graduation – Class of 2025
• Father’s Day

They will also write short, simple sentences such as “The cat ran home.” Keep a special box or bin at home filled with writing materials (crayons, pencils, markers, paper, and notepads) so your child can practice writing simple sentences about special things he’s done or seen during the day. Ask about what he’s written, and have him read it aloud. Offer encouragement by displaying his writings on the refrigerator or on her bedroom wall.

Kids this age will learn to recognize, write, order, and count objects up to the number 30. They will be able to add and subtract small numbers (add with a sum of 10 or less and subtract from 10 or less); this focus on addition and subtraction will continue through second grade.

Numbers and Counting

Get your kindergartner to look for the numbers one through 30 in magazines and newspapers. He can cut them out, glue them on paper, and put them in order. When you’re riding in the car or waiting in line, play a game of “What comes next?” Give your child a number and ask him to identify the following number. At bedtime, ask him to count how many stuffed animals he has, and ask, “How many books about dogs do you have? How fast can you count them?” Take two of these books away and ask, “How many are left?”

• Kids this age will learn to recognize, write, order, and count objects up to the number 30.
• They will be able to add and subtract small numbers (add with a sum of 10 or less and subtract from 10 or less); this focus on addition and subtraction will continue through second grade.
• Kids will learn how to name and describe common shapes (circle, square, triangle, rectangle) and to identify, sort, and classify objects by color, size, and shape.

Help your child understand the concept of time by saying what time it is during routine activities. Use and explain words like morning, noon, night, yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Make a timeline together showing a typical day, with drawings of regular events and the time of day written beneath each one.

In addition to learning about time, 5- and 6-year-olds can name the four seasons, so chart changes in the weather together on a special weather calendar to help your child learn how the seasons change. Find pictures illustrating the seasons (colorful leaves, snow, blooming flowers) and discuss what your child sees in them. Talk about what clothing you can both wear during each season.

The post New parents share their middle of the night google searches appeared first on Witty Kiddies Nurseries.

The New Einstein’s Academy offers an innovative program for children. The curriculum is designed to empower the children through social interaction, play, discussion, reflection, and creativity. It is the best preschool in Chicago. The daily program of New Einstein’s Academy includes free play, hands-on activities, many learning and outdoor activities. The preschool also goes on field trips on a bi-monthly basis.

It's always better to start them on easier books, because then they feel successful, and that spurs them on, so they'll read more.

John Doe Tweet

Quinn says. Dr. Seuss books, with their rhymes and simple words, are perfect for this age, Quinn says. Kids learn through repetition, so read the same favorite books over and over, ask questions, and encourage your child to say simple words aloud. Throughout the day, have her say the words she sees on street signs, billboards, and computer screens, or have her search for high-frequency words in a magazine.

Recent Posts

• Getting Ready for Reception: Why Transition is Something We Do Together
• Messy Play and Early Years.
• How to Potty Train Your Toddler
• Graduation – Class of 2025
• Father’s Day

They will also write short, simple sentences such as “The cat ran home.” Keep a special box or bin at home filled with writing materials (crayons, pencils, markers, paper, and notepads) so your child can practice writing simple sentences about special things he’s done or seen during the day. Ask about what he’s written, and have him read it aloud. Offer encouragement by displaying his writings on the refrigerator or on her bedroom wall.

Kids this age will learn to recognize, write, order, and count objects up to the number 30. They will be able to add and subtract small numbers (add with a sum of 10 or less and subtract from 10 or less); this focus on addition and subtraction will continue through second grade.

Numbers and Counting

Get your kindergartner to look for the numbers one through 30 in magazines and newspapers. He can cut them out, glue them on paper, and put them in order. When you’re riding in the car or waiting in line, play a game of “What comes next?” Give your child a number and ask him to identify the following number. At bedtime, ask him to count how many stuffed animals he has, and ask, “How many books about dogs do you have? How fast can you count them?” Take two of these books away and ask, “How many are left?”

• Kids this age will learn to recognize, write, order, and count objects up to the number 30.
• They will be able to add and subtract small numbers (add with a sum of 10 or less and subtract from 10 or less); this focus on addition and subtraction will continue through second grade.
• Kids will learn how to name and describe common shapes (circle, square, triangle, rectangle) and to identify, sort, and classify objects by color, size, and shape.

Help your child understand the concept of time by saying what time it is during routine activities. Use and explain words like morning, noon, night, yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Make a timeline together showing a typical day, with drawings of regular events and the time of day written beneath each one.

In addition to learning about time, 5- and 6-year-olds can name the four seasons, so chart changes in the weather together on a special weather calendar to help your child learn how the seasons change. Find pictures illustrating the seasons (colorful leaves, snow, blooming flowers) and discuss what your child sees in them. Talk about what clothing you can both wear during each season.

The post Back to work after baby? Infant teachers share tips to make the transition easier appeared first on Witty Kiddies Nurseries.

The New Einstein’s Academy offers an innovative program for children. The curriculum is designed to empower the children through social interaction, play, discussion, reflection, and creativity. It is the best preschool in Chicago. The daily program of New Einstein’s Academy includes free play, hands-on activities, many learning and outdoor activities. The preschool also goes on field trips on a bi-monthly basis.

It's always better to start them on easier books, because then they feel successful, and that spurs them on, so they'll read more.

John Doe Tweet

Quinn says. Dr. Seuss books, with their rhymes and simple words, are perfect for this age, Quinn says. Kids learn through repetition, so read the same favorite books over and over, ask questions, and encourage your child to say simple words aloud. Throughout the day, have her say the words she sees on street signs, billboards, and computer screens, or have her search for high-frequency words in a magazine.

Recent Posts

• Getting Ready for Reception: Why Transition is Something We Do Together
• Messy Play and Early Years.
• How to Potty Train Your Toddler
• Graduation – Class of 2025
• Father’s Day

They will also write short, simple sentences such as “The cat ran home.” Keep a special box or bin at home filled with writing materials (crayons, pencils, markers, paper, and notepads) so your child can practice writing simple sentences about special things he’s done or seen during the day. Ask about what he’s written, and have him read it aloud. Offer encouragement by displaying his writings on the refrigerator or on her bedroom wall.

Kids this age will learn to recognize, write, order, and count objects up to the number 30. They will be able to add and subtract small numbers (add with a sum of 10 or less and subtract from 10 or less); this focus on addition and subtraction will continue through second grade.

Numbers and Counting

Get your kindergartner to look for the numbers one through 30 in magazines and newspapers. He can cut them out, glue them on paper, and put them in order. When you’re riding in the car or waiting in line, play a game of “What comes next?” Give your child a number and ask him to identify the following number. At bedtime, ask him to count how many stuffed animals he has, and ask, “How many books about dogs do you have? How fast can you count them?” Take two of these books away and ask, “How many are left?”

• Kids this age will learn to recognize, write, order, and count objects up to the number 30.
• They will be able to add and subtract small numbers (add with a sum of 10 or less and subtract from 10 or less); this focus on addition and subtraction will continue through second grade.
• Kids will learn how to name and describe common shapes (circle, square, triangle, rectangle) and to identify, sort, and classify objects by color, size, and shape.

Help your child understand the concept of time by saying what time it is during routine activities. Use and explain words like morning, noon, night, yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Make a timeline together showing a typical day, with drawings of regular events and the time of day written beneath each one.

In addition to learning about time, 5- and 6-year-olds can name the four seasons, so chart changes in the weather together on a special weather calendar to help your child learn how the seasons change. Find pictures illustrating the seasons (colorful leaves, snow, blooming flowers) and discuss what your child sees in them. Talk about what clothing you can both wear during each season.

The post How to help your children be smart appeared first on Witty Kiddies Nurseries.