A Parent's Guide to Preparing for Pre-Nursery: 2 Weeks to Go!

Jul 30, 2025

Starting pre-nursery is a significant milestone for both parents and children, marking the beginning of a lifelong educational journey. At Mighty Oaks International Nursery and Kindergarten, we understand that this transition can feel exciting yet overwhelming. With just two weeks to go, we’ve compiled this step-by-step guide to help parents prepare their children (and themselves!) for pre-nursery.

Group of small nursery school children sitting on floor indoors in classroom, clapping.

Why Pre-Nursery is Important

Pre-nursery is more than just an introduction to school; it’s a space where children begin to develop foundational skills that will benefit them for years to come. Through play-based learning, structured routines, and social interactions, children at Mighty Oaks cultivate:

  • Independence: Learning to complete tasks like tidying up and self-feeding.
  • Social Skills: Building friendships, sharing, and working in groups.
    Cognitive Development: Gaining problem-solving skills, curiosity, and creativity.
  • Emotional Growth: Expressing feelings, developing empathy, and adjusting to new environments.

With just two weeks to go, here’s how you can help your child smoothly transition into this exciting new chapter.

diverse children

1. Familiarize Your Child with the New Routine

Pre-nursery introduces structure into your child’s day. To ease the adjustment:

  • Set a Consistent Schedule: Begin waking your child up and putting them to bed at the same time they will follow during pre-nursery.
  • Practice Separation: If your child hasn’t been apart from you often, arrange short separation periods (e.g., with a trusted caregiver or family member) to help them adjust.
  • Introduce School Activities: Simulate parts of the school day, such as snack time, circle time, or art activities, to build familiarity with routines.
daycare classroom

2. Build Excitement About Pre-Nursery

Helping your child feel positive about starting pre-nursery can make all the difference:

  • Talk About School Positively: Share stories about making new friends, playing with toys, and learning fun songs.
  • Visit Mighty Oaks: If possible, schedule a pre-visit or virtual tour to show your child their new classroom and meet the teachers.
  • Explore the School Bag Together: Let your child help pack their bag with essentials like a water bottle, snack box, and comfort item (if allowed).

3. Strengthen Independence

Encouraging self-help skills will empower your child and build their confidence:

  • Practice Self-Feeding: Allow your child to eat snacks and meals on their own, using utensils or fingers.
  • Toilet Training: If your child is potty training, involve them in simple tasks like pulling up their pants or washing their hands.
  • Encourage Cleanup: Teach your child to tidy up toys or put items back in their place after use.
Childs are playing with play clay in classroom.

4. Focus on Social and Emotional Readiness

Pre-nursery is often the first opportunity for children to interact with peers in a structured environment:

  • Role-Play Social Scenarios: Practice sharing, taking turns, and asking for help through pretend play.
  • Validate Their Feelings: Talk about how it’s okay to feel nervous or excited, and reassure them that their teachers are there to help.
  • Introduce Circle Time: Practice sitting in a circle, singing songs, or listening to short stories together.
     

    5. Create a Supportive Learning Environment at Home

    Learning doesn’t stop when the school day ends. Reinforce what your child experiences in pre-nursery through simple, engaging activities:
  • Read Together: Choose books about starting school or books in the languages your child will learn at Mighty Oaks (English and Putonghua).
  • Play Together: Use puzzles, building blocks, and role-play games to encourage problem-solving and creativity.
  • Sing Songs: Introduce fun nursery rhymes or songs that build vocabulary and rhythm.
     

    Two Weeks to Go: A Checklist

    Here’s a quick checklist to ensure you’re ready for the first day:
  • School Supplies: Label all items, including your child’s water bottle, snack box, and extra clothes.
  • Comfort Item: Pack a small, approved comfort item if your child needs reassurance.
  • Health Forms: Ensure all required medical and enrollment forms are completed and submitted.
  • Introduce the Drop-Off Routine: Plan for a calm, quick goodbye on the first day to help your child transition confidently.
     

    Supporting Parents Through the Transition

    Starting pre-nursery is a big step for parents too! At Mighty Oaks, we’re here to support you as much as your child:
  • Stay Connected: Our teachers will keep you updated on your child’s progress through regular communication.
  • Parent Resources: Take advantage of workshops, parent meetings, and helpful tips shared by our team.
  • Trust the Process: It’s natural to feel anxious, but remember that this is a wonderful opportunity for your child to grow, learn, and thrive.
     

    Ready for an Amazing Start at Mighty Oaks

    Your child’s first day at pre-nursery marks the beginning of their Mighty Oaks journey—one filled with discovery, growth, and joyful learning. By preparing them for this transition, you’re giving them the tools they need to thrive in a nurturing and supportive environment.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us!

Let’s make your child’s pre-nursery experience a memorable and enriching one!