Your Guide to Changing Nurseries Smoothly: Tips for Parents

Changing nurseries can feel like a daunting task for any parent or carer. Whether you’re relocating, looking for a better fit, or your circumstances have changed, there’s a lot to consider—from emotional preparation to administrative hurdles like transferring funding.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to change your child’s nursery smoothly while ensuring your child feels supported every step of the way.

Why Might Parents Change Nurseries?

Parents decide to change nurseries for many reasons, including:

  • Moving home or relocating to a new area
  • Moving from a Nursery to a Preschool, or vice versa
  • Wanting a nursery with better facilities or learning opportunities
  • Needing a setting with longer opening hours or more flexibility
  • Looking for better staff-to-child ratios or more individual attention

Whatever your reason, planning the move carefully helps avoid unnecessary stress for both you and your child.

Step 1: Research and Shortlist New Nurseries

Start by researching nurseries in your desired area. If you’re local, searching for “nursery Southwark” or “nursery London” will give you a list of options. Make a shortlist based on:

  • Location and convenience
  • Opening hours
  • Staff qualifications and ratios
  • Facilities and learning activities offered

Look out for nurseries with good Ofsted ratings. You can check inspection reports here.

Step 2: Visit and Ask the Right Questions

When visiting potential nurseries, consider asking:

  • How do you support children who are transitioning from another nursery?
  • What settling-in sessions do you offer?
  • Do you have availability for my child’s age group?
  • How do you handle emotional support for new starters?
  • Do you accept 15 or 30 hours funding, and can you help with the transfer?

At Little Angels Nursery, we welcome parents for tours and offer a personalised settling-in process.

Step 3: Plan the Funding Transfer

One of the most common concerns when switching nurseries is what happens to your government-funded childcare hours.

If your child is eligible for 15 or 30 hours free childcare, you’ll need to:

  • Inform your current nursery that you’re leaving
  • Check term dates to avoid gaps in funding
  • Speak to your new nursery about transferring the funded place
  • Notify your Local Authority if required

Little Angels supports parents every step of the way to ensure a smooth funding transfer with no disruptions. You can find full funding details here.

Step 4: Prepare Your Child Emotionally

The emotional impact of switching nurseries is often overlooked. Children thrive on routine and familiarity, so change can feel unsettling.

Here are ways to help your child adjust:

  • Talk positively about the new nursery in advance
  • Visit together before the official start date
  • Take a familiar item like a blanket or favourite toy
  • Meet the new keyworker beforehand if possible

Every child is different—some may settle in days, others may need longer. Communication with the new nursery is key.

At Little Angels, we personalise settling-in sessions and work closely with parents to make the transition as smooth as possible.

Step 5: Keep Communication Open with Both Nurseries

  • Notify your current nursery of your leaving date
  • Clarify any notice period or outstanding fees
  • Confirm the official start date with the new nursery
  • Request updates on your child’s progress during the first few weeks

Good communication helps avoid any misunderstandings and ensures the funding, emotional support, and admin are all in place.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Nursery Transfer

  • Time the move during a natural break, like half-term or at the start of a new term
  • Ask the new nursery about their approach to separation anxiety
  • Get copies of your child’s learning records or progress reports from the current nursery
  • Check meal plans and dietary accommodations at the new setting
  • Don’t rush—allow your child time to adapt

For NHS advice on supporting your toddler’s nutrition during this transition, visit their website here. 

Making the Move with Little Angels Nursery

Changing nurseries doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right preparation and support, you can ensure a smooth transition for both you and your child.

If you’re searching for nursery places available in Southwark, Little Angels is here to help.

As a family-run nursery, we understand how important this transition is. Our experienced team provides:

  • Tailored settling-in sessions
  • Help with transferring funding smoothly
  • Regular progress updates
  • A caring, nurturing environment designed to make your child feel at home

From handling funding transfers to emotional support, the team at Little Angels is ready to make your child’s next chapter a happy and positive experience.

Contact us today to arrange a visit or download our brochure if you’re interested to know more about our Southwark Nursery.