If you're like most parents, you want to do everything you can to prepare your child for success in daycare. For your child, their first day of childcare can be very exciting and frightening, but there are many things that you can do to help them get used to the idea and have a wonderful first day. In today's blog, VonKids in Calgary will talk about some tips to help your child and get them ready for their first day!
How to Prepare Your Child for the First Day of Childcare
Create a Routine Weeks Before Their First Day
If your child is used to being at home with a parent or caregiver, it's important to start creating a daycare routine a few weeks before their first day. This could mean getting up and dressed at the same time each day, eating breakfast at the same time, and spending some time playing outside or reading books. By starting to form a daycare routine early on, your child will be more prepared for the transition they’ll be making in the following weeks.
Talk About Daycare in a Positive Light
It's important that you talk about daycare with your child in a positive light. This means avoid using words like "school" or "class" which can have negative connotations. Instead, focus on the positive aspects of daycare such as meeting new friends, learning new things, and spending time outdoors. By talking about daycare in a positive light, you'll help your child feel more excited about going and less anxious.
Visit the Daycare Center Together
If possible, try to visit the daycare center together a few days before your child's first day. This will give them a chance to see where they'll be spending their time and to meet some of the staff. If you can't visit the daycare center, ask if they have any pictures that you can show your child or if they can do a virtual tour. Seeing the daycare center ahead of time will help your child feel more comfortable on their first day.
Pack a Comfort Item from Home
For many children, having a familiar comfort item from home can make all the difference on their first day of daycare. This could be a stuffed animal, a blanket, or a favorite toy. Something that your child can hold onto and feel close to will help them feel more secure in an unfamiliar environment.
Prepare Your Child for Their First Day
Starting daycare can be a big adjustment for both you and your child. But with a little bit of preparation, you can help your child feel more comfortable and excited about their first day. Try to create a daycare routine at home a few weeks before their first day, talk about daycare in a positive light, visit the daycare center together, and pack a comfort item from home. By following these tips, you'll help your child have a wonderful first day of daycare.