Taking care of practical things like lunches and clothes labels the night before (or earlier) will  reduce the stress of trying to get out the door. This means you can focus on your child and how  they’re feeling on child care mornings. If your morning at home is calm, you’re both more likely to  be calm when you say goodbye. 

Child care is very stimulating. Your child will probably be tired and need recovery time at home.  This might mean an earlier bedtime or longer naps, or maybe just quiet play in a familiar  environment.

Books and illustrations are a wonderful way for children to learn about and understand new  experiences, especially those that may feel overwhelming. Try ‘The Invisible String’, this story  teaches children how they can be connected with loved ones even when they are apart or ‘Llama  Llama Misses Mama’ about a llama’s experience starting preschool. 

Now that you have less time with your child, you’ll want to make the most of the time you do have  together. Breastfeeding or bottle-feeding before and after child care can be a good way to connect.  You might also be able to build special time into your evening routine, with songs and play at bath  time, or cuddles and stories at bedtime. Or plan for relaxed family time together on the weekends –  for example, a regular play at the park. 

In times of change, most children need a predictable routine to feel safe and at ease. It is important  that you think through how you are going to drop off and pick up your child with as much  consistency as your schedule allows. If your schedule varies a lot over the week, and other family  members or friends are helping with drop offs and pickups, a schedule on the fridge may help children to feel reassured. Adding a photo, of who will be responsible for your child during these  times, can help. 

It is natural for a child to feel upset when they are separated from you, but a drawn-out goodbye  will only prolong their distress. We recommend a brief goodbye to allow educators to quickly  engage with your child in an activity to calm them – you can always call the childcare later to  understand how your child settled after you left. 

When it’s time to go, let your child know you’re going and when you’ll be back. Give your child a  hug and a kiss, say goodbye to your child’s educator and leave promptly. This makes it easier for  your child to settle down with their educator. 

Your child is more likely to feel secure in the new child care setting if they see that you have good  relationships with early childhood educators. If your child can see that you trust their educator, your  child is more likely to trust the educator too. 

If your child is still breastfeeding, and if it’s possible for you, you might want to think about visiting  the centre during the day to feed your child. Many centres encourage breastfeeding mothers to  visit, and it might help your child settle into care. 

It is common for parents to feel a mix of emotions ahead of their child’s first day at childcare.  Parents should check in with how they are feeling ahead of this milestone and speak with other  parents. Be mindful of how you talk about your feelings when your child is nearby. Your child will  observe your own feelings and emotions. It is helpful for your child to hear you speaking  confidently and being calm.