How to prepare your child for the first day at daycare
How to prepare your child for the first day at daycare
The first day somewhere new is never easy, no matter the age. Adults get nervous before their first day at a new job, teenagers get nervous before the first day at high school. So, why should children feel any different about their first day at an early learning centre?
It is completely normal for your child to be fearful and apprehensive about going (and it’s normal for parents to feel like that, too!). We’re here to help. Here are five strategies you can use to make your child’s first day at Sagewood a little easier.
1. Visit the daycare centre together
The first day will be a lot easier if your child has already seen the centre and met the teachers. If you have time, we recommend visiting at least twice before hand. Show them where they’ll hang their bag, where some special toys are, and who will look after them. This way, your child can recognise the space before the big day, be familiar with the staff, and feel more comfortable in the environment.
2. Talk about the centre
Everything about attending the early learning centre should be communicated to your child in a way they can understand. Let them know you’ll be dropping them off for a play, but you’ll come back for them later. Explain a bit about what’s going to happen while they’re there. For example, playing, eating, napping — let them know what to expect. The more your child knows, the better, and it’s beneficial to get started early so that your child has time to process the information and ask questions.
3. Practice independence
This is especially important if your child hasn’t been away from you much. Separation anxiety is common and very normal the first few times, so practicing being apart beforehand can help a lot. Essentially, your little one needs to know you’re leaving them, but you will always be back. Getting started can be as simple as popping to the shops for twenty minutes while your child stays with another family member. Give verbal cues like, “I’m going now, but I’ll be back soon.” When you do come back, celebrate! “I’m back! You did such a great job without me.”
4. Bring a comfort item
If your child already uses a comforter, pack this in their bag. This security item will really help them feel safe in a new environment. Toddlers may like to pick their own special toy to take with them, while babies will need some familiarity with a comforter beforehand to bond with it. Whatever they bring, don’t forget to write their name on the tag. If your child doesn’t have a comforter this is ok, let us know what they like to play with or are interested in and we will make sure that we have this ready for them when they come.
5. Be strong
Seeing your little one distressed as you drop them as a new place can be extremely upsetting. It’s normal for your child to feel overwhelmed, and for you, as a parent, to feel upset too. We often find that once a child has had a few days at daycare, they’re excited to come back, but we completely understand that the first few times are really tough. Stay strong and be patient we are here to support you in this process.
Ready to learn more?
We’d love to show you around our facility and introduce you to our nurturing, friendly teachers and staff. We can offer even more advice on how to make the transition to daycare easier and show you what to expect at Sagewood — contact us today .
