How to Make a Daycare Goodbye Easier

Putting a child in daycare can be traumatic for both mother and child.  There are some things you can do to be prepared and make the transition go as smooth as possible for all involved.

Your toddler is about to begin daycare and your stomach is all aflutter.  How will you handle it?  More importantly, how will your child handle it?  Here are some tips on how to make a daycare goodbye easier.

Do you remember your first day of school?  How did you feel?  What do you remember most about that day?  Thinking back to that time will help you to make your child’s transition much easier. 

Does your toddler have a favorite item which makes him or her feel safe and secure?  If so, allow your child to take it to daycare, even if it’s just in the beginning.  Another good idea is to either drive to or walk (depending upon the location of the center) to the daycare center every day for a week.  This will allow your child to become familiar with the route you take and become at ease with his or her surroundings.

When the day arrives, try not to linger.  Kiss and hug your son or daughter and tell them to have a great day or impart a special message and say it every day.  Don’t get upset in front of your child.  They will think something is wrong and begin to cry.  Once your child is among other children and involved in activities, he or she will settle down.

If you are concerned, call the center and ask how your toddler is coming along.  Advise the caregiver if there are any problems or concerns you have.  Is there anything special the caregiver has to do for your child?   After all; this is your baby and you want to ensure he or she is doing well and getting along with the other children.

When it’s time to pick up your toddler, arrive early.  Ask your son or daughter what they did that day.  Did they make any friends?  What are their names?  Did you like the caregiver?  Make a call to the caregiver to find out how your child did that day.  Were there any problems with other children?  Did your child have a snack and nap time?

Take notice of your child’s behavior when you pick him or her up from daycare.  Is your child happy and excited?  Does your child display any anger or irritability?
Change is hard for most children, but if you prepare them well from an early age and while there may be a hint of insecurity, they will eventually come around and understand you are not leaving them because you don’t love them, but because you do.  You can make a daycare goodbye easier for your child and for you as well.  A child who feels secure in any environment is not only a well-developed child but enriched by your loving upbringing.