The transition into a childcare setting can be an emotional milestone for both children and parents. Whether this is your first time navigating the early learning journey or you’re helping your child adjust to a new centre, it’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. The good news? It doesn’t need to be stressful. With a bit of preparation and support, there are a few ways you can make the transition easier on both your child and yourself!

Kirbie Metcalfe, Centre Manager at Little Navigators Early Learning shares her top five tips to help make the transition to childcare easier:

1. Start Your Childcare Prep Early

As they say, you can never be too prepared, and the same goes for the transition to childcare. If you know your little one will be in care, start planning early to set you and your child up for success. This could include things like:

• If your baby is exclusively breastfed and will be entering care before their first birthday, incorporating a bottle feed into their schedule is an important way to familiarise them with different ways of feeding. Many mothers find having a partner or another adult give the bottle to their child can help ease the process. But remember, like all new habits a baby learns, things can take time. Be consistent and seek advice from a healthcare professional if needed.

• If you and your bub co-sleep, you might like to try for at least one nap a day in their cot to help encourage independent sleep. The Raising Children Network can be a great resource for parents looking for additional advice around sleep for their child.
• Tour a range of different centres to get a feel for one that is best suited to you and your family.

A note to parents of babies: We sometimes find that parents of babies under one can feel additional trepidation about having their little one start care, but you should feel at ease knowing that early learning centres love having babies join their nurseries and educators will work closely with parents to keep them up-to-date as your little one reaches developmental milestones. A good quality operator will flood you with photos and videos so you are always in the loop!

2. Attend an Orientation Day Together

Orientation days are a fantastic way to introduce your child to their new environment. These visits allow you to explore the centre together, meet educators, and help your child begin to feel safe and comfortable in their new surroundings.

Every child is different, so while some may feel confident after just one visit, others might benefit from multiple orientations.

In the lead-up to an orientation day, use this time to talk to your child about the transition. We find that open dialogue with children really helps to get them excited for a new early learning adventure.

3. Ease into the Routine with Short Days

Starting childcare can be overwhelming for little ones, especially if it’s their first time in an early learning setting. To ease the transition, consider beginning with shorter days and gradually increasing the time your child spends at the centre.

This approach allows them to settle at their own pace, building confidence and security in the new environment.

4. Create a Consistent Drop-Off Routine

Children thrive on predictability, so establishing a consistent drop-off routine is key. Whether it’s a quick cuddle, a special goodbye phrase, or a high-five at the door, meaningful rituals can reassure your child and signal that it’s time to get ready for the start of their day at childcare.

After decades of witnessing drop-off routines, I have found that keeping drop-offs short and sweet often works best. While it can be hard to leave during emotional goodbyes, a quick farewell can be really effective as it allows our educators to help your child transition into their day. Educators are experts at comforting and engaging children, so rest assured that within minutes of your departure, it’s likely that your little one will be engaged in fun activities and will have a new focus.

A good quality operator should call or text to let you know your little one is happily engaged with activities if your drop-off has been hard. If they don’t, don’t be afraid to call to check-in, or ask for confirmation once your little one is settled.

5. Bring Comfort from Home

A favorite comfort item—like a soft toy, blanket, or dummy—can make a world of difference during the transition period. These familiar objects provide a sense of security and can help your child self-soothe in moments of uncertainty.

Share any tips about how your little one likes to be comforted with our team so your educators can tailor their care to your child’s needs.

6. Support Your Child Through Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is a common and natural part of early childhood development If you feel your child may be going through separation anxiety, here are some initial steps that can help navigate it with care:

• Talk about the transition: Use positive language to explain where your child is going and reassure them that you’ll always return. For example, “You’re going to have so much fun playing with friends and toys, and then I’ll come back to pick you up after snack time!”
• Validate their feelings: It’s ok if your child feels nervous or upset. Acknowledge their emotions and offer reassurance without prolonging the goodbye.
• Stay calm and confident: Children often take emotional cues from their parents. If you appear calm and assured during drop-offs, it can help your little one feel the same way.

If separation anxiety persists or you have any concerns, you should seek further support from your child’s doctor or paediatrician. And always keep an open line of communication with your child’s educators as there may be additional strategies that can be utilised to make your child more at ease.

The transition to an early learning setting is an exciting and special moment for children. By using these tips, you can help minimise any worries and maximise your child’s confidence as they embark on a lifelong love of learning!

About Little Navigators

Little Navigators is a boutique early learning provider offering nurturing, safe, and stimulating environments for children aged six weeks to five years, with a focus on child-led learning, outdoor play and nature exploration, and a thoughtfully designed curriculum.

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