Transitioning a toddler into daycare is difficult for both the child and the parents. Child care demands time away from parents, a step into the unknown, and a shift in routine for young children. Taking your child to day care may be a fun and flattering experience, but it is important to keep certain tips in mind in order to have a smooth transition. Here’s how you can get your child used to going to day care.
Visit the New Place with Your Child
Pick a day when you and your child can both go to the centre. Develop your child’s acquaintance with the caregivers with whom he or she will have to be with daily, spend time playing with the toys, and become acquainted with the daycare's overall ambience. If possible, do a trial run like this several times before starting full-time care. Many centres offer a two-week to a month-long trial period to allow the child to get acquainted with the place.
Introduce Your Child to the Caretakers
Most children are anxious around new people, especially when their parents are not around. It is best to introduce your child to the caretakers at the daycare centre in advance. This practice will help your child adjust to the new environment with new people fairly quickly. If your child has separation anxiety or is hesitant to attempt new things, inform the caregiver right away.
Make a Gradual Transition
If your child's daycare allows it, make a gradual transition by allowing them to remain a little longer each day. Start with an hour if it's your child's first time being away from you. Work with the caregivers to develop a transition timeline that will push them a bit more each day until they are comfortable.
Spend Quality Time
Now that it is time for your child to go to daycare, you’ll have to start spending some quality time with them. If you're busy during the day, make sure that you find time to interact and bond with your kids in the evening or morning. For example, get them dressed for daycare or read bedtime stories to them. Make sure that you spend quality time on weekends with your kids by going to the park or simply spending time together at home.
Engage In Experiential Learning
While your child may feel at ease being cared for by grandparents and family friends in the comfort of your own home, they may react differently when they are in an unfamiliar setting, such as a daycare centre. Allow your youngster to have a few short visits with non-parent caregivers to help them become more independent.
The good news is that most children eventually accept the new routine sooner or later. Make sure you speak with the child care provider and assistants before starting daycare.
For further information or questions, please contact us.