Moving into a children’s home is a big step for any child. Families and professionals often ask what the first day looks like and how children are supported during this transition. Children’s homes follow structured, caring routines to make sure new arrivals feel safe, welcomed, and understood.
The Welcome Process
Personal Belongings and Space
Meeting Other Children
Health and Safety Checks
On arrival, staff ensure all medical needs are understood. This may include a health check, updating records, or reviewing medication. Ofsted requires homes to maintain accurate information about each child’s health and welfare from the very beginning.
Emotional Support
Arriving at a children’s home can be overwhelming. Staff use trauma-informed care to support children emotionally, recognising feelings of loss, confusion, or anxiety.
Why the First Day Matters
The arrival process is about more than logistics it sets the tone for the child’s experience. A positive first day can:
Reduce anxiety
by making the child feel safe and understood.
Encourage trust
through consistent, kind support from staff.
Support belonging
by helping the child feel part of the household quickly.
Build stability
setting routines that create comfort and predictability.
When a child first arrives at a children’s home, the goal is simple: to help them feel safe, welcomed, and supported from the very beginning. Through care, routine, and encouragement, staff ensure that every child’s first day is the start of a positive journey.