Your child’s settling in journey: what to expect in the first 6 months
Settling into child care is a journey, not a single moment. Every child and family settles in at their own pace, and it’s normal for this time to bring a mix of excitement, reassurance-seeking, and adjustment.
At Kinder Haven, we take a thoughtful, staged approach to settling in over the first six months. This helps children feel safe, build strong relationships, and develop confidence in their new environment, while giving families clarity about what to expect along the way.
First month
As your child becomes more settled, they start to feel confident in the daily rhythm of the room and centre.
During the first month:
- Educators continue strengthening relationships and supporting friendships.
- Individual Learning Plans begin to take shape, informed by your child’s interests and experiences.
- Families receive regular communication through daily updates and centre information.
- By this stage, many children feel comfortable separating from their family and engaging more fully in learning and play.
1-3 months
Between one and three months, children typically form strong attachments with educators and peers.
Families can expect:
- A trusted relationship with at least one consistent educator.
- Increased confidence from your child as they settle into routines and relationships.
- Ongoing communication about learning, wellbeing, and development.
This stage is about connection, consistency, and growing independence.
3-6 months
During this time:
- Strong educator relationships are well established.
- Children are actively participating in learning, play, and friendships.
- Families receive clear insight into their child’s development through the Individual Learning Plan.
- Family and educator discussions may take place to reflect on how your child is progressing.
At around six months, families receive a summative update through the Individual Learning Plan. This reflects your child’s learning journey so far, celebrates milestones, and supports planning for the next stage of development.
By this point, families often feel confident in their choice of centre, connected to the team, and reassured that their child is thriving.