What to Expect and What to Pack for Your Childs First Day at Nursery

At Busy Bees, we know that your child’s first day at nursery is a big milestone — for them and for you. It’s natural to feel excited, a little nervous, and maybe even a touch overwhelmed. That’s why we do everything we can to make this transition as smooth as possible for both parents and children.

To help you feel prepared, here are five things you can expect on your child’s first day with us — plus a handy guide on what to pack in their nursery bag.

1. It’s completely normal to feel anxious

Even after settling-in sessions and time spent getting to know your child’s key person, those first-day nerves are very real. We recommend, where possible, not making your first day back at work the same as your child’s first nursery day. Giving yourself a little extra space allows you both to ease into the routine without added pressure.

Remember, the calmer you are, the calmer your child will be. You can also call as many times during the day as you like to check and see how they are doing. Your child’s wellbeing is our top priority, and we’ll do everything we can to reassure you.

2. You’ll get a window into their day

Through the Busy Bees app, you’ll receive updates on your child’s day, such as meals, naps, and nappy changes. You’ll also see observations from their key person, capturing those special moments of learning and play. While we share daily notes, we typically send photos once a week, giving you a lovely snapshot of your child enjoying their nursery day.

3. Activities planned especially for your child

During settling-in sessions, your child’s key person will gather lots of information about their routines, interests, and preferences. We use this to make sure their first day is filled with activities that feel familiar and exciting.

For example, if your child loves dinosaurs, we might set up a dinosaur sensory tray to welcome them. If they enjoy storytime, the book corner will be ready to explore together. Every activity is carefully planned to spark curiosity and support your child’s development through our unique Bee Curious curriculum.

4. Opportunities to try something new

Our nurseries are designed with children in mind, so your little one will discover resources and experiences that may be brand new to them. From messy play, such as gloop and body painting, to outdoor exploration, we’ll encourage them to experiment, explore, and have fun.

As well as experiencing activities planned with their interests in mind, their key person will also observe how they respond to new experiences, using these insights to plan future activities that nurture both confidence and learning.

5. A tired but happy child at the end of the day

Even with nap times built in, the first day at nursery is full of adventure and activities. Don’t be surprised if your child is extra tired by home time, it’s all part of adjusting to their exciting new environment.

At pick-up, your child’s key person will provide a full handover, so you know how their day has gone. However, if you don’t take it all in, don’t worry, that’s where the Busy Bees App comes in, you can look back at the key information, such as what they ate and how long they slept for.

What to Pack in Your Child’s Nursery Bag 

To help your child have the best possible start, here’s what we ask you to include in their nursery bag: 

• Several changes of clothes, including socks and underwear, especially if they are toilet training. You may also want to include spare shoes. ?We enjoy plenty of sensory play and messy activities, whilst aprons are provided, please avoid sending your child in clothing that is very special. Please ensure that everything your child brings in is labelled!
• Outdoor clothing suitable for the season. We play outside whatever the weather so please pack accordingly. Don’t forget sunhats in the warmer months and welly boots, a raincoat and woollen hats and mittens in the winter. Again, please ensure that everything is labelled with your child’s full name.
• Bottles and breast or formula milk if your child is still bottle-feeding. This should be prepared at home and transported to the centre in an insulated bag with an ice pack to maintain a chilled temperature. NHS guidance relating to transporting milk can be found here.
• A water bottle filled with water only.
• A comforter, such as a small teddy or muslin, if your child uses one. We ask you to please ensure that these are safe and suitable for a nursery environment, for example, no loose parts that could become a choking hazard.

Here’s what not to include:

• Plastic or drawstring bags as they can pose a safety risk.
• Food or snacks - we provide nutritious meals and snacks throughout the day.
• Electronics or tablets.
• Medication - this must be handed directly to a member of staff, who will guide you through the forms. Medication should not be left in your child’s nursery bag.
• Toys – whilst we welcome comforters to help children settle, we have plenty of wonderful and engaging toys at the centre so please leave others at home.
• Nappies, wipes and nappy sacks - these are all provided for you!
• Nappy cream – if your child requires this, please make sure it is handed over to staff and not left in the nursery bag.
• Suncream – this is also provided. If your child needs a specific cream or brand, please hand this over to a member of staff, and they will get you to complete the relevant form.

Your child’s first day marks the beginning of a wonderful adventure at Nursery. From the moment they arrive, their key person will be there to offer comfort, encouragement, and activities tailored just for them. We’ll keep you updated, share their milestones, and make sure both you and your child feel supported every step of the way. Together, we’ll help your little one settle in happily and confidently as they start their nursery journey.