Sending your child to daycare is both exciting and scary for parents and little ones. It’s an entirely new world for your toddler and they have no idea what to expect. For many parents, it may also be the first time they are separated from their baby and it can cause some stress and anxiety. There’s no need to worry, your child is in the best hands possible and your nursery will make sure they have the best day ever.
Here’s what you can expect on your child’s first day of daycare.
Saying goodbye
In the first few years of your child’s life, there probably weren’t many occasions where you were away from your child for more than a couple of hours. Understandably, it’s going to be hard for both of you to say goodbye on the very first day of nursery. There may be some tears or your child may be excited to participate in this newfound freedom. Either way, it’s a good idea to practice separation before their first day. Ask a grandparent or trusted adult to watch them for a couple of hours beforehand so that they are able to comprehend that while you’re not there, you’ll always come back.
Get your child excited
Nursery or daycare should be something your child is excited about. All the new friends they will make and activities they will do will help them learn and grow. In the weeks leading up to their first day, talk about it often so they know what to expect. Explain all the toys they can play with, arts and crafts they can do and games they can play. You can also plan to visit your daycare centre with your child in advance so you can both adapt to the new environment together and it won’t seem like a scary place. They can meet the friendly nursery staff and know that they are welcome.
Adjust your child’s schedule
Adapting to a new environment is already challenging for your little one, let alone a new schedule. You can make the transition easier by getting them used to the nursery’s schedule. Speak to a nursery teacher beforehand so you know when your child will be sleeping and eating and you can start introducing that schedule at home. This will make it much easier for your child to adjust to when they start day nursery.
Little Acorns Day Nursery is based in Eastleigh and Hedge End offering quality facilities and friendly nursery staff. To enrol your child, get in touch today.