In order to give your child a head-start before they make their way to school, many parents take their toddlers to a nursery school to get used to the structure of education as well as boost their learning and independence.
However, whilst the starting age for primary school is at some point after a child turns four, there is not necessarily a universal starting age for nursery school, and it can depend a lot on the child, the family situation and work-related factors such as parental leave.
Some nurseries with a baby room can take babies in from under a year old, and can in some cases involve some form of nursery care from birth.
However, it is essential when a very young baby goes to nursery to make sure it is a peaceful, relaxing environment that will allow them to not only learn and grow but relax and sleep as well. Nurseries for babies are often significantly different in terms of caring environment.
Generally, most children enter nursery school between the ages of two and three, although a growing number are going to nursery just after their first birthday.
Whether one age or another is correct is a red herring; what matters is the personality of your toddler and their level of independence. If a child is dealing with separation anxiety, it may be best to practice short separations with another caregiver first to ensure that they feel safe away from their parents.
If a toddler has an established daily routine that they are familiar with and enjoy, have the energy to stay at nursery all day and are happy to be around other children, they are likely ready to start nursery.
Before two is not necessarily too early and after three is not necessarily too late, as older nursery children tend to adjust a little slower.
It all depends on the child and getting in touch with the right nursery to arrange a look around and have a play visit will help parents decide what the right choice is for them.