How To Help Your Child Settle Into Childcare?

Settling Your Child into Childcare: Practical Tips for Parents

Starting at a daycare centre can be an emotional experience for you and your child. It’s natural for children to experience difficulty settling into a new environment, particularly if they struggle to separate from family or familiar caregivers. Parents can also find this milestone challenging. However, with patience, preparation, and support, this transition can be a positive experience for everyone.

StartingBlocks is an excellent resource for parents who want information about children’s education and care. Below are some suggestions to help settle your child into childcare. Note that you must be patient because your child may cry, be grumpy, or throw tantrums initially as they get used to the new environment.

Preparing Your Child for Childcare

1. Talk About Childcare Positively
Introduce the idea of childcare as an exciting and fun place where they will meet new friends and engage in enjoyable activities. Share stories, books, or videos about childcare experiences to familiarise them with the concept.

2. Start Gradually
Consider beginning with shorter or fewer days at childcare, then gradually increasing their attendance as they develop a settling routine.

3. Stay Calm and Confident
Your child can pick up on your emotions. Stay positive and reassure them that they’ll be safe and cared for. When saying goodbye, keep it brief and confident, and let them know you (or someone else) will be back later to collect them.

4. Establish a Goodbye Ritual
A consistent goodbye routine, such as a special hug, a wave, or a comforting phrase, can provide emotional security. Avoid sneaking away, as this can cause anxiety or confusion.

5. Maintain Consistency
Stick to a consistent drop-off and pick-up schedule. Consistent routines provide children with a sense of stability and make the transition smoother.

Comforting Your Child

1. Bring Familiar Items
Allow your child to take a comfort object, such as a blanket, stuffed animal, or family photo, to the childcare centre.

2. Identify a Trusted Educator
Ask the centre to introduce your child to a specific educator who can be their point of comfort when you’re not there.

3. Communicate Comfort Needs
Share with the centre any specific comfort strategies that work for your child, such as their favourite toy or blanket, and discuss how to handle moments they may find unsettling.

4. Show Empathy
Talk to your child about their feelings. Reassure them that their emotions are normal and that you’re proud of their courage.

Encouraging Your Child

1. Celebrate Small Wins
Acknowledge your child’s progress, such as successfully completing their first day or making a new friend. Positive reinforcement builds confidence and excitement.

2. Engage in Morning Conversations
During breakfast, discuss their day ahead, including when you’ll pick them up, and encourage them to pack their essentials or choose a favourite toy to bring along.

3. Follow Up with the Centre
For peace of mind, check in with the centre during the day to see how your child has settled. Children upset at drop-off often adjust quickly once the separation is over.

Reconnecting After Childcare

After a day at childcare, reconnect with your child by giving them your undivided attention and showing empathy for their experiences

Conversation Starters:

• What was your favourite activity today?
• Did you make new friends? What are their names?
• How was the food, and who did you eat with?
• Did your educator read any stories? What was your favourite?
• What did you build or play with today?
• Did you learn something new?

Use photos or notes from the educators to spark meaningful conversations, helping your child reflect on their day.

Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity

At Imagine, we pride ourselves on fostering an inclusive and culturally sensitive environment. If your child has unique needs or cultural practices, we encourage open communication to ensure we provide appropriate support while respecting their identity.

SOURCES: Starting Blocks (2020, January 15). How can you help your child settle into care?

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