How You Can Help Your Child Settle Into Childcare

As parents, we understand the mix of emotions that come with sending our little ones off to childcare. It’s a big step, not just for the child, but for us as parents as well.

We tend to worry about their happiness, how they’ll adjust and even whether they’ll be okay without us for a few hours.

If you’re in Chipping Norton, Liverpool NSW, or any of Sydney’s suburbs, we have some tried-and-true tips to help your child (and you) settle into childcare.

Here are the ways you can make this transition as seamless as possible:

Schedule an Orientation Visit

The first thing we recommend is scheduling an orientation visit to the childcare Chipping Norton centre they’re about to be enrolled in. This visit will help your child get a feel of the place, meet their future carers, and see the other children they’ll be spending time with.

During the visit, let them wander around and check out the play areas and toys. Show them where they’ll eat and where they’ll have nap time. This will help transform the childcare centre from a mysterious place into somewhere they recognise and feel a bit more comfortable with.

Also, you get to observe everything and ensure it’s a safe and nurturing environment for your precious one.

Prepare Them Mentally and Physically

Preparing your child for child care involves both mental and physical preparation. Talk to them about what to expect. Use simple, reassuring language to explain what their day will look like. For example, “You’ll play with other kids, have snacks, and listen to stories. Then, I’ll come to pick you up.”

You might also want to start aligning your home routine with the childcare schedule. If they have set meal or nap times, try to follow the same timing at home. This little bit of consistency can make a huge difference when they start at preschool Warwick Farm.

Physically, make sure they’re well-rested and healthy. A tired or unwell child might find it harder to cope with the new environment. Make sure they’re eating well and getting enough sleep in the days leading up to their start at childcare.

Let them Take Familiar Objects

Kids find comfort in the familiar. Allow them to take something from home, like a favourite toy or a blanket, or even a family photo to school. It’s amazing how a small piece of home can provide a lot of comfort.

The educators are usually very accommodating about these things because they understand how important it is for your child’s comfort.

Offer Moral and Verbal Support and Encouragement

Your child will look to you for cues on how to feel about this new experience they are facing. You have to offer moral and verbal encouragement at all times. Talk to them about new childcare arrangements, and be sure to highlight the fun activities they’ll get to do and the new friends they’ll make.

Every morning, make it a point to talk about the exciting things our child would do at child care Warwick Farm. For example, you can say things like, “I bet you’ll have so much fun painting today.” or “I wonder what new songs you’ll learn with your friends.” This positive reinforcement will surely help build their enthusiasm and confidence.

You have to acknowledge their feelings as well. If your child is feeling scared or anxious, let them know that it’s okay to feel that way.

Offer reassurance by saying, “I know you’re feeling nervous, but remember how much fun we had during the orientation visit? You’ll get to do that again and see your new friends.” Balancing validation of their emotions with positive anticipation can make a big difference.

Talk With their Educators

Building a good relationship with childcare educators is super important. These are the people who will be looking after your child, so you have to make it a point to communicate openly with them. Make sure to share any concerns that you have and ask for their advice on how best to support your child.

During the orientation visit, take some time to chat with the educators. Let them know about your child’s likes, dislikes, and any particular routines or comforts.

Be Consistent with Support in their First Days

This means being there for your child when they get home, offering cuddles, and listening to how their day went, even if half of what they’re saying sounds a tad like gibberish. Pretend if you must!
Routine is a child’s best friend. So, try your best to stick to a routine. If you can, drop them off and pick them up at the same time each day so your child knows what to expect.

As much as possible, try to keep their sleep, meal, and play routines similar to home. You should also do the same things every morning before dropping off your child. It could be a special song, a cuddle, or a quick story.

Also, it’s tempting to pop in and check on your little one, but too many visits can actually prolong the settling-in period. Trust in your child’s educators and give them space to build a bond.

Be Calm Yourself

This might be the hardest part – staying calm. Your child picks up on your emotions. If you’re anxious, they’ll sense it. Take deep breaths and remind yourself that you’re making a positive step for your child’s growth.

Wrapping Up

Starting childcare is a big step, and it’s completely normal to feel a mix of emotions. But remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Thousands of parents have walked this path before you, and with the right support, both you and your child can thrive.

Joey’s Cottage is more than just a childcare centre; it’s a place where your child can explore, learn, and grow.

Our team is made up of passionate educators who treat every child like their own. They’re not only experienced but truly dedicated to making each day special for your little one. At Joey’s Cottage, your child will be part of a safe, nurturing environment where they can grow, learn, and make lifelong friends.

So, if you’re looking for a place where your child will be loved, encouraged, and inspired every single day, Joey’s Cottage is the perfect fit. We’d love for you to come and see for yourself why so many families in the Warwick Farm area trust us with their children’s early education.

Book an orientation visit with us today. Come meet our amazing team, explore our beautiful spaces, and get a feel for the warm, welcoming environment we’ve created. Just give us a call or visit our website to set up your visit. We can’t wait to meet you!