Adaptation in the Kindergarten
What can you do at home?
For some children it’s easier to adjust to a new situation, when they know what to expect. You can tell your child, what a day at kindergarten looks like, play kindergarten together by acting out scenes with stuffed animals, or read books on this topic.
Adaptation is above all a time of big changes, and children react to change in different ways. That’s why we suggest avoiding evaluations such as “It will be great!” or “You’ll love it!” when talking about kindergarten. Instead, describe what it will be like — explain that children play there without their parents, but in the first days someone close will stay with them to help them feel safe.
For those who enjoy doing things together, we recommend preparing as a team — you can take your child shopping, choose clothes together the day before, or pack their kindergarten backpack. Talking about what the next day will look like helps your child feel more secure and confident.
Suggestions for the First Days
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Visit to the Kindergarten
The next stage of adaptation is the visit to the kindergarten. The first days are very important — this is when the bond between the caregiver and the child begins to form. That’s why we suggest that parents spend the first few days at the kindergarten together with their child. This time helps the child become familiar with the environment, meet the teachers, and feel safe. It also helps the parent gain trust and confidence that their little one is in good hands. These shared days at the kindergarten are a time for joint activities and free play.
It’s important for the parent to remain visible to the child so they can approach or call them if needed. Instead of actively directing the child, we recommend calm observation — avoiding encouraging the child to play, initiating contact with other children, or engaging in long conversations with teachers or other parents.
During the first few days, it’s better not to stay for nap time or meals, especially if these moments may be difficult for the child. The initial visits should be short — we suggest that the first three days take place during a forest walk of about 2–3 hours, followed by longer visits of around 5–6 hours in the next days.
We also recommend telling your child when the kindergarten time will end — for example, “We’ll go home when the children return from the walk.” The next stage of adaptation involves teachers gradually taking over the parent’s role, leading to the final step: the child staying at kindergarten independently. Below, you’ll find some tips on how to make this transition easier for your little one.
Separation. Ways to Say Goodbye.
Separation often comes with strong emotions. If your child is protesting intensely and you can stay a bit longer, consider remaining with them for a short while. You can tell your child how long you’ll stay — for example, “I’ll stay until the end of breakfast,” or set a timer for 10 minutes.
If your child protests strongly during goodbyes and you feel that the situation is too difficult for both of you, please ask us for help or advice.
Our experience shows that in such challenging moments, it may help if another close person — such as the father, grandmother, grandfather, aunt, or caregiver — accompanies the child for a few days. Sometimes this makes separations much easier.
Some children need time to “process everything in their heads,” while others are eager to share stories about their day. Both reactions are completely natural.
Adaptation usually goes more smoothly when children stay at kindergarten for a shorter time at first. If possible, pick up your child after lunch during the initial days, and then gradually extend their time at the kindergarten.
Children find it easier to manage separation when they know when they will be picked up. Instead of giving a specific time, it’s better to describe an event after which you’ll come — for example, “after nap time” or “after afternoon snack.”
It may also help if your child brings a favorite soft toy, blanket, or small item from home — something that gives them comfort and a sense of security.
Our staff is always here for you. If your child’s adaptation process worries you or feels especially difficult, we warmly invite you to talk with us.
CLOSENESS
Being close to the child, listening attentively, treating them with respect and empathy. In our view, the most important element in early education is closeness in the relationship with the child. We draw on the principles of Attachment Parenting.
FOREST KINDERGARTEN
Our forest kindergartens are located near the Kabaty Forest Nature Reserve and within the Landscape Park, where children can fully satisfy their natural need for movement, outdoor play, contact with nature, and learning through exploration every day.
ENGLISH ALL DAY
Przedszkole dwujęzyczne. Jeden z opiekunów rozmawia z dziećmi w języku angielskim – metoda immersji językowej. Dodatkowo codziennie lekcje języka angielskiego.
NVC
Everyone matters. We do not judge, create pressure, or use rewards and punishments. We communicate using the language of Nonviolent Communication (NVC). We support each child’s sense of safety and inner harmony by respecting all emotions and being attentive to their needs. By naming emotions, children learn to recognize their own feelings and those of others.
MONTESSORI
We create a space for children’s independence, overcoming challenges, and finding their own solutions. We follow the child’s interests, nurturing curiosity and imagination. By trusting their abilities, we allow them to learn through their own experiences.
HEALTHY EATING
Being close to the child, listening attentively, and treating them with respect and empathy. In our opinion, the most important aspect of early education is closeness in the relationship with the child. We apply the principles of Attachment Parenting.
