Speech therapy for 3 year old

[Katiecorley19]

Hello my sons just started nursery and he hates it he cries constantly and just doesn’t want to be without me , he can talk but it’s just words but it’s only a handful and I think if he could communicate better he’s feel a bit more comfortable . The staff there are amazing and have gave me a number to ring for him but I just feel so sad for him , wish he could have a happy experience.

[RachelModerator Moderator]

Hi Katiecorley19 ,

How has it been this week for your little one, has it been any better?

It's great to hear the Nursery Staff are really supportive, hopefully with little bit more transition, he will start to enjoy his experience.

I am guessing the settle in sessions and opportunities to be there with him are a bit different due to the Covid restrictions...

Does he have a member of staff he feels more comfortable with, that would be able to receive him at drop off. Drop off can be particularly difficult for some children, as there is a lot of hustle and bustle and other parents saying goodbye, it can seem very over whelming. Is it practical to arrange a slightly earlier, or later drop off for your son, just whilst he gets used to Nursery?

I also think it is important to consider whether it is the actual saying goodbye he finds most upsetting and is then relatively happy for the rest of the session, or does he remain very distressed and unable to focus or join in with any activities?

It may be worth considering if some little picture cards may help if he's finding it tricky to communicate, could he have a picture of things like his drink, snack, or some of the activities he may enjoy such as reading a book that he can point to help him communicate a little easier, especially if he is upset.

I can be easier to focus on "Mummy will pick you up after story time" than just saying "bye."

It sounds like he may need a slightly longer transition period and hopefully between yourself and Nursery you can come up with a way to make it feel easier for your little boy.

For information on speech, you can check out: salt.ecch.org/

And if you would like any further support regarding Nursery and settling in, please call 0300 300 0123.

Best Wishes.

Rachel (Assistant Practitioner)