Tips on Helping Your Child Adjust to Daycare
Leaving your child in someone else's care at a daycare can be emotionally difficult for both you and your child, particularly if you have been the primary caregiver in your home for the bulk of your young child's life. Children who go to daycare full time typically take about one month to adjust, and part-timers take one to three months, says Today's Parent. The transition can be less painful with some extra effort on your part.
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Doing Your Research
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Choose the daycare setting that best suits your child's age and personality. For example, your toddler will typically do better with a primary caregiver, so pick a daycare with sufficient staff well-trained in dealing with younger children. Be sure the setting is not too small or large, too crowded or empty, or too over- or under-stimulating for your child's personality. Look for a daycare close to home so you do not spend the bulk of your time together in transit. Alternatively, choose a daycare close to work so you can drop in for visits or lunch.
Visiting Ahead of Time
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Before you need to drop your child off full time, visit the daycare with your child and stay there with her. Have your child meet and interact with the caregivers and other children. Let your child see and participate in the routine activities and see you interacting positively with the caregivers so your child understands that you trust them. If the visits together are successful, consider dropping your child off alone for a couple of hours a week to get accustomed to the routine.
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Keeping a Positive Outlook
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As the initial drop-off day approaches, spend time talking to your child about how the routine will work, what your child can expect and the new friends and experiences your child will gain. Let your child see that you are excited for the new experience. Read stories to your child about other children's positive experiences at daycare. Keep your personal anxieties about the separation to yourself.
Handling the First Drop-Off
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At the initial drop-off, resist the urge to push your child into interacting. Help him engage in an activity before you leave, but allow him to do so at his own pace. Consider bringing a special toy or blanket to give your child some security and a reminder of home. Assure him you will return at a time he can understand, such as after nap time or lunch. Do not leave without saying goodbye because this can make your child distrustful and anxious the next time. Likewise, resist having a drawn-out and emotional leave-taking.
Keeping on Track
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To keep daycare drop-off running smoothly, be sure your child gets plenty of sleep and healthy food, as fatigue can make goodbyes more emotional. Try to keep home stresses to a minimum to help your child feel safe and secure. Initially, stay in close contact with the caregivers to be sure your child is adjusting well after you leave. Call or drop in unannounced to observe how your child is interacting and being treated. Build a good communication with the caregiver so you can work together to make the transition as painless as possible for everyone.
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References
- Family Education: Helping Your Child Adjust to Daycare
- iVillage: Pregnacy and Parenting: Babies: Dealing with day-care separation
- What to Expect: Pregnancy and Parenting Every Step of the Way: Adjusting to Daycare or Preschool - Getting Your Toddler to Talk About Her Day
- kidsLink: Will My Child Adjust to Daycare?
- Today's Parent: Parent Time: Daycare Debutantes
- Photo Credit mother image by Mat Hayward from Fotolia.com
