How to Plan a Fresh Start in Child Care for Your Child
Entrusting our little treasure to an early education and child care provider is a very difficult and stressful moment for most families.
When that time comes, plan a few days ahead with a flexible work schedule to help your child have a slow and smooth transition when leaving them with their new child care provider.
Learn the route you’ll take when child care begins to know how long it will take to get to the day care.
If your child cries, never lose your calm and try to soothe them, as your child will pick up on any feelings of stress or tension you may have about this transition. You should respond in a calm and positive way:
- “Yes, Mommy knows it’s hard to say goodbye, but we’ll be together soon. Mommy will pick you up after work.”
Don’t linger too long during the goodbye: When you hug and kiss your child, don’t show concern or annoyance. It’s better to do it as quickly as possible.
After the workday is over, the most hectic time of day arrives for families—battling traffic, bringing work home, rushing to the supermarket, and knowing there are household responsibilities waiting once you get home.
Despite this, families can take some steps to minimize stress for themselves and their child.
Pick up your child first. If you show your child that you’re happy to see them and be together again, you’ll end their day on a positive note.
If your child is in the middle of an activity, give them time to finish it.
Greet your child’s provider and ask about the highlights of the day, any concerns they may have: How did they eat? Did they take a nap? How did they interact with the other children in the class?, etc.
If your child doesn’t want to leave, don’t take it personally. It’s a good sign that your child is having a wonderful time during their care, and it could also indicate they may struggle with transitions.
Have a small snack ready in the car, especially if dinner is still a while away.
Always set aside time in the evening for “quality time” with your child.
For example, spending 30 minutes reading a story, playing, preparing dinner together, or working on another project will help strengthen the bond between the family and the child.
Article written by: Nadieska C. La O
