We accept children mainly in September and January.

A well-managed adaptation is an investment in your child's future.

During the first years of life, children undergo significant development, not only in motor (movement) skills but also in their psychological development. Just as there are key milestones in physical development, there are also milestones in a child’s psychological growth. However, both of these areas are influenced by many factors, such as the environment the child grows up in, their relationship with their parents, and their individual temperament. For this reason, every child develops in their own unique way and reaches motor milestones at their own pace. It is therefore not possible to predict with certainty how a child will respond to more challenging situations in life. At the same time, it is very important to keep in mind that these experiences can have a significant impact on their future development if they are not given sufficient attention.

One such experience can be starting in a children’s group or nursery. For many children, this is their first longer period of separation from their parents. From a psychological perspective, children are generally ready to spend longer periods of time without their parents around the age of three, when they have developed a secure attachment and a basic sense of themselves and how they function. However, some children manage this transition earlier, needing only occasional gentle support from an adult. More sensitive children may continue to experience difficulties with separation even around the age of four.

In a children’s group, a child enters a new environment that places greater demands on their independence and, often for the first time, brings them into longer interactions with their peers. At an early age, it is essential for healthy development that a child feels safe and secure. Only then can they continue to grow and develop new skills. For a successful start in the children’s group, a gradual and calm adaptation process, guided by the child’s individual needs, is therefore key. This process involves becoming familiar with a new situation, environment, and caregivers. Close cooperation between everyone involved—the child, the parents, and the caregivers in the group—is very important. During this period, the child has the opportunity to build new relationships and develop trust in the caregivers.

The entire process should be thoughtfully guided by the needs of each individual child and regularly reflected upon by both parents and caregivers.

At the beginning of the adaptation process, we recommend that the child spend a short time in the new environment together with a parent, who can help them become familiar with the setting and reassure them that they are safe. Gradually, the child begins to spend time without their parent—initially in short intervals, usually during the morning.

For the adaptation process to be successful, it is important that parents feel committed and supported throughout. Starting in a children’s group is a significant transition for the whole family, as it brings many changes.

During this period, the child may temporarily regress in some areas—for example, they may sleep less well at night or occasionally have accidents. It is important to observe these changes with understanding and, if needed, consult a specialist.

To support a smoother adaptation, we recommend introducing some changes even before the child starts attending the group:

• Establish a daily routine similar to the one in the children’s group (wake-up time, snack/lunch/nap times).
• Encourage time spent with other children (e.g. playgrounds, play areas, meeting peers).
• Support the development of self-care skills—dressing, handwashing, and independent eating—according to the child’s age.
• Help the child get used to falling asleep in the afternoon (e.g. independently or with a short story).
• Speak positively about the children’s group.
• Encourage the child to ask for help when needed.
• Be consistent and keep promises.

After a successful adaptation, your child will be able to comfortably take part in a larger social group, continue developing new skills, and build a positive foundation for future experiences at school and in other social settings.