We understand that this may be your first experience in having your child spend some time away from home and you might feel anxious at this time.

• Will my child like KiNZ Early Learning Centre?
• What happens during the day and will they be happy?
• How do I ensure they settle in well?

Please be assured that the staff understand your feelings and will ensure your child’s settling in time is as enjoyable and easy as possible.

Preparing for KiNZ

• At home talk about KiNZ, the activities, the environment and the new friends
• Pop in with your child for a visit to make them feel more comfortable with the new surroundings
• Pack their bag together to assist them with recognising it
• Include a change of labelled clothes.

What to pack in the bag

• a bag with your child's name clearly printed 
• a change of named clothes, sunhat and rain coat
• disposable nappies (if applicable)
• bottles made up for each feed with your child's name clearly printed on each bottle (if applicable)
• your child’s special comforter for sleeping (if applicable)
• during summer please put sunscreen on your child before they come to KiNZ and we will keep topping it up for the rest of the day.  Please sign the Enrolment Form for this to happen.

We do not encourage the bringing of personal items or toys from home. We find that if your child is carrying around a favourite toy it is often a safety concern and it may also lead to tears if it is misplaced in the centre.

Don’t forget to label everything!

Many children love their first day and sometimes first week as it is so new and exciting but it slowly becomes apparent to them that they will be left at KiNZ.  At this stage it can be a daunting time with separation, however before long they will become confident and feel secure.  They also can be upset at the beginning if they are not used to change. 

First day at KiNZ
On your arrival to the centre, a staff member will welcome you and your child and introduce you to the team.  Your child may wish to stand and watch, or they may possibly be ready to
join in an activity straight away.  Let your child get a sense for the new
surroundings and go at his/her own pace as they feel comfortable.

You will be shown the:

• Foyer sign in sheets
• Pockets in the foyer
• Parents information board
• Child lockers/hooks
• Bathroom/Nappy changing area
• Programme planning

Please come prepared with current work and emergency phone numbers, and your child’s birth certificate and immunisation records.  If you have chosen not to immunise your child please let the Centre Manager know as this is extremely important should the Ministry of Health require details.

Saying Goodbye
When you feel comfortable (15-20 minutes after you arrive) we suggest farewelling your child and telling him/her that you have to go but you will be back later on to collect them.  Be honest with your child and tell them that you are leaving.  Let them know where you are going and that you will be back. 

From experience, we have found that it is easier for the child to settle if the leaving process is reasonably quick. 

Be positive.  Children sense when their parents are upset or worried and this increases their anxiety.  Encourage your child to look forward to their day.

Please be assured the staff are committed to ensuring this settling in period for your child is as enjoyable and easy as possible.  Feel free to phone the centre at any time during the day to find out how your child is.  The staff will also call you should your child continue to be really upset and not able to settle.