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The First Time to Daycare – How to Help Your Child (and Yourself!)
The first day at daycare is a big milestone – not only for your child, but also for you as a parent! New faces, a different environment and a day full of new impressions... it is logical that this takes some getting used to. But rest assured: with a little preparation, this step will be a beautiful and pleasant experience for both of you!
"Good preparation helps to make the transition as smooth as possible."
It is perfectly normal to have mixed feelings. Maybe it feels a bit exciting or you wonder how your child will find it. That is perfectly okay! It helps to remember that childcare has many advantages: your child discovers the world, makes friends and develops through play.
Good preparation helps to make the transition as smooth as possible. With these tips you help your child (and yourself!) to start this new adventure with confidence:
Talk about it: Start talking about it in a relaxed way. Tell them that your child will be going to daycare soon, what he or she can do there and how much fun it will be.
Read a book together: There are many fun children's books about daycare. By reading about them together, your child will already get an idea of what he or she can expect.
Keep a fixed rhythm: Try to follow a daily rhythm at home that is similar to that of the daycare, such as fixed eating and sleeping times. This gives your child something to hold on to.
Getting used to other caregivers: Let your child play with grandpa, grandma or a friend every now and then. This way he or she gets used to other familiar adults and a new environment.
Make it fun: Talk enthusiastically about the daycare: "You can play there, do crafts and make new friends!"
"Before you know it, your little adventurer will be waving you goodbye at the door with a smile!"
Stay relaxed yourself: Children sense emotions very well. If you radiate that everything is fine, it gives your child confidence. When you pick him or her up, a positive reaction such as: "You did so well today!" helps much more than: "Oh, poor dear, was it hard without mommy?"
Getting used to daycare habits: Is your baby still fully breastfeeding? Then it can help to practice with a bottle. Does your baby still sleep in your bed at home? Then you can consider getting used to sleeping alone in his own bed. By building this up at home in a familiar environment, you ensure that your baby will also enjoy daycare more.
Take the time to get used to it, many childcare locations offer an adjustment period. This helps your child to get used to the new environment step by step. During the adjustment period everything is new for you and your child. Fortunately, pedagogical employees are ready to help you. You can go to them with all your questions and to express your feelings. You are really not the only parent who may find it even more exciting than your child! Trust your feeling - You know your child best. After the first few days you will see how your child gets used to it, grows and has fun. And before you know it, your little adventurer will wave you goodbye at the door with a smile! With a little preparation, the first time at the daycare will be a warm and positive experience. You can do this!