How scary is that first day of daycare? The average child has to have an adjustment period when starting something new. That first day is going to be hard. Two to four weeks would be a normal time for them to get used to the new place and not show some sign of fear when you drop them off and leave them there. Although this adjustment time may be hard because you don’t like to see your child upset, the quicker you make the drop-off, the better. Just say good-bye and give your hugs and kisses and walk out the door. Trust your provider to do the rest. When you limit the time you spend saying good-bye to your child, you cut down on the time it will take your newly entrusted provider to get your child over being upset. Remember, you picked a quality daycare. If you don’t leave because your child is upset, they just get more and more worked up and they’ll stay worked up for a longer period of time. On that first day of daycare, don’t use the “sneak-out” drop-off tactic. A child needs to learn that mom or dad will leave them in the morning, but will come back to get them when they’re finished working. Although they may not understand all the words you use when they are young, you need to explain it verbally. Be very casual with your morning routine. Give them a hug and kiss, tell them you love them, then say good-bye, I’ll see you later. When you try to sneak out when they’re not looking, you’re teaching them not to trust you. Trust me as a provider who has had this experience, children get very, very upset when they discover their parent “snuck out.” Starting at a new daycare is a good time to get rid of some habits you’ve been attempting to break. If your child has a pacifier that it’s time to give up, do it now. In your child’s mind, this new provider doesn’t know their schedule and habits and they just don’t seem to ask for items they’re used to asking for. Is it a blankie that should maybe stay at home now? How about that bottle that should have been given up two months ago? Let your new provider know that they are breaking a habit, but start a new routine without these items. It’s the easiest time for a child. For books to read about that First Day in Daycare, check out:
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