Welcome Back to Wonderland ☁️
A Gentle First Week After Christmas
We hope you all had a lovely Christmas break filled with magical moments. As we welcome everyone back to Wonderland, we know that returning to nursery after time at home can feel like a big step for our little ones and parents, and that’s completely normal.
Because of this, our first week back will be all about resettling, getting back into routine, and taking things nice and slow.
Taking Our Time
At Wonderland, we always follow the children’s lead. After Christmas, some children may come back full of confidence, while others may need a little extra reassurance — both are absolutely fine.
During the first week we will:
• Keep days calm and familiar
• Avoid introducing anything new or overwhelming
• Allow extra time for cuddles and comfort.
This gentle approach supports children’s Personal, Social and Emotional Development, helping them feel safe, secure, and confident in their surroundings again.
Getting Back into Routine
Routines are really important for young children, but after a break they can take time to settle back into. We’ll be slowly reintroducing our daily routine: meals, naps, play, and quiet times, whilst also being flexible and responsive to all their needs.
Clear routines help children make sense of their day, supporting their Understanding and confidence, as well as their Communication and Language.
Big Feelings Are Welcome Here
It’s very common for children to experience big emotions when they return — missing mummy and daddy, feeling unsure, or needing extra closeness. We’ll be:
• Offering lots of reassurance and one-to-one time
• Naming feelings in simple, age-appropriate ways
• Supporting children through separation.
This is a key part of the EYFS Personal, Social and Emotional Development prime area, helping children learn that their feelings are understood and supported.
Calm, Familiar Play
Our activities this week will focus on:
• Free play with familiar toys
• Favourite stories and songs
• Cosy corners and quiet play
• Gentle sensory experiences
• Bringing any play ideas from home they have enjoyed over the Christmas period.
These support children’s Physical Development through movement and exploration, while also encouraging Communication and Language through songs, stories, and everyday conversations.
Working Together
We really value working closely with our families. If there’s anything you’d like to share about how your child has been over the holidays, please let us know, it really helps us support them in the best way possible.
Looking Ahead
Once everyone is feeling happy and settled again, we’ll slowly return to our usual activities and learning experiences. By taking this calm, nurturing approach, we’re giving children the emotional security they need to thrive.
We’re so happy to welcome everyone back to Wonderland and are looking forward to a lovely term ahead ☁️
~ Alice
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