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From Toddlers to Trailblazers: Our Journey to School Readiness at Toddlers Inn Nursery

  • Writer: Toddlers Inn
    Toddlers Inn
  • May 12
  • 5 min read

Updated: May 15


Getting ready for school is a huge milestone in every child’s journey — and it’s about so much more than learning letters and numbers. True school readiness is about confidence, independence, curiosity, and feeling secure enough to take that exciting next step. At Toddlers Inn Nursery, we weave these foundations into everyday experiences, helping children grow into capable, enthusiastic learners who are ready for the challenges and adventures of big school.


In this blog, we’ll share exactly how we do it and what makes our school‑readiness approach so special at Toddlers Inn.



Inside Our School‑Readiness Journey: Sabrina Shares Our Approach

The transition from nursery to "Big School" is a milestone that carries a mix of excitement and first-day jitters—not just for the children, but for parents too! At Toddlers Inn Nursery, we believe school readiness is about much more than just knowing colours or counting to ten. It’s about feeling confident, secure, and familiar with the road ahead.


​​One of the most effective ways to ease anxiety is to humanise the transition. Throughout the summer term, we start communications with reception class teachers and facilitate visits to the nursery so that children get to meet them in an environment where they already feel safe. 


By the time that first day arrives in September, the teacher isn't a stranger—they are the friendly face who played with the playdough or read a story at Toddlers Inn.


​A new school building can feel enormous to a four-year-old. To combat this, we support small group visits to their new class at the local primary schools. Walking the hallways, seeing where the pegs are, and visiting the playground helps transform an "unknown" space into a familiar one. The local primary school can also share social stories, providing photos and narratives about the school office, toilets and caretakers.

​These visits allow children to process the physical change at their own pace, so the logistics of a new building don't overwhelm the excitement of learning.


​​Communication is the bridge that keeps a child’s progress steady. We don't just send over a written summative assessment about the individual child; we maintain active, open dialogue with the reception class teachers about each child’s development and personality.


We discuss each child's unique interests, their "wow" moments, and any areas where they might need a little extra nudge of encouragement.


We want their new teachers to know them as individuals before they even walk through the door.

​​We’ve spent years cultivating strong professional links with our local primary schools. This collaborative relationship allows us to synchronise our approach.


​​While we handle the big-picture logistics, we also focus on the "little" things that empower a child:

  • ​The Lunchbox Challenge: Practising opening lids and peeling bananas.

  • ​The Uniform Race: Learning to put on coats and change shoes independently.

  • ​Confidence Building: Encouraging children to ask for help when they need it.

  • ​Our Philosophy:

"School readiness isn't a finish line; it’s a foundation. Our goal is to hand over a child who is curious, resilient, and—most importantly—ready to say a happy goodbye at the school gate and tackle every challenge confidently."


by Sabrina Watt - Nursery Manager


From Our Pre‑School Leader: The Feel Behind a Successful Transition

Our Pre‑School Leader, Lauren, brings a unique insight into what the transition to school truly feels like for our children. She works closely with families and staff to ensure every child takes a smooth, confident step into their next chapter. In this section, Lauren shares how we shape that transition at Toddlers Inn and what makes it such a positive journey for our little learners.


From Roots to Routes: Navigating the School Adventure with Calm and Kindness

The transition to "big school" is one of the most significant milestones in a child’s early life. It’s a season of big emotions, new uniforms, and curious questions. At our setting, we believe this shift shouldn't feel like a hurdle to clear, but rather a positive adventure to be embraced.


By weaving together sensory play, independence, and familiar stories, we ensure every child feels grounded, confident, and ready to fly. Here is how we cultivate a calm and reflective environment during this time of change.



1. Anchoring Through Stories and Sensory Play

To help children process their feelings, we prioritise calm, sensory experiences. Instead of just talking about change, we let them "feel" their way through it.

  • A Shared Journey: We read When a Dragon Starts School. Since all schools in East Sussex use this story, it creates a powerful bridge of continuity. When they walk into their new classroom and see that familiar dragon, they’ll know they belong.

  • Reflective Spaces: Through small-group discussions and sensory play, we encourage children to voice their excitement or "butterflies," normalising the emotions that come with new beginnings.


2. Building Confidence, One Step at a Time

"School readiness" isn't about sitting still at a desk; it’s about feeling capable. We use engaging, small-group activities to build the foundations of literacy, maths, and physical strength.

  • Little Links: Our speech and language programme helps children find their voice, ensuring they can express their needs and understand the new expectations of a school environment.

  • The Power of Routine: We use visual timelines and daily circle times. These moments allow children to notice changes, commit to our "6 Golden Rules," and develop the focus they’ll need for the school day.


3. Mindfulness and the Independent Child

A calm child is a learning child. We foster self-regulation through yoga and breathing exercises, teaching children to listen to their bodies and find their own "quiet centre."

Independence is also a cornerstone of our philosophy. We encourage self-care in practical, real-world ways:

  • Self-Dressing: Whether it’s changing after a splash in a puddle or peeling off Forest School gear, we support children in becoming masters of their own buttons and zips.

  • Role Play: Our dress-up corner is stocked with school uniforms, allowing children to "try on" their new identity through play before the first day arrives.



4. Bridging the Gap: From Nursery to Classroom

We work hard to make the unknown feel known. By the time our children leave for school, the "big building" down the road already feels like a second home.

Feature

How it Helps

School Visits

Attending sports days and performances makes larger environments feel less intimidating.

Teacher Visits

Welcoming future teachers into our nursery allows children to show off their "home turf" to a new face.

Transition Booklets

We share individual booklets from teachers, helping children memorise the faces and spaces of their future classrooms.


The Goal: A Natural Evolution

By focusing on teamwork, turn-taking, and kindness, we ensure that social transitions are just as smooth as academic ones. We don’t just want our children to be "ready" for school; we want them to be eager.

Through this blend of reflective practice and playful preparation, we turn the daunting "big step" into a joyful walk through the woods. We are so proud to watch our little adventurers grow into confident, independent learners, ready to take on the world—one dragon story at a time.



Helpful Links for Supporting Your Child’s Transition to School

Transitioning to school is a big step, and having the right guidance can make all the difference. Below are some trusted resources that offer practical tips, activity ideas, and expert advice to help you support your child as they prepare for their next adventure.




About Us:

We know that choosing a nursery is a big decision and here at Toddlers Inn, after years of experience, we think we understand what is important to both parents and children. We realise the demands and pressures parents have in their lives and we therefore offer many different, flexible sessions to suit every parent's needs. Whether you are applying for a funded or self-funding place, or have vouchers from work, we will always endeavour to find what works best for you. Visit our website at www.toddlersinnnursery.co.uk







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