Smooth First Day at Day care - Tips for Providers and Parents

The first day at day care is a big one for all concerned nmum, child and carer. It is exciting and terrifying at nthe same time. Here are a few tips on how best to preparenall of you for the big day and help make that transitionna smooth one.

Mom Start gently preparing your child in advance nmentioning what a great adventure day care will benwith lots of friends and games. Keep it low key thoughndo not overdo it as this could overwhelm your child.
Provider You could provide mom with first names of nchildren and carers at the day care and suggest rolenplaying with dolls so everything is not completely strangenon that first day.

Mom should try to foster independence in the weeks npreceding with visits to friends, washing own hands etcnand providers should be sure to encourage mom and childnto visit the day care a couple of times before startingnallowing the child to absorb the environment.

Mom should be sure to have everything packed for the day ne.g. snacks, change of clothes, comfort toys and ensure neverything is labelled. Be sure and have monies paid and nforms completed before the big day so you are not ndistracted by these tasks. Have lots of timento get ready the morning of the big day with a good nbreakfast and some chat about the great adventure ahead.
Carers should have an extra person on hand when a new childnis starting so that one person can focus on distractingnand comforting the new child. It is also advisable to haventhe child start at a time when everyone is settled intontheir morning activities I wouldn't recommend first thingnin the morning when the flurry of activity could be nupsetting for the new child.

Allow the child to help pack his bag and carry it.
When you arrive at the day care walk your child in nholding his hand, do not carry him. Providers shouldninsist on this therefore avoiding the peeling child offnthe parent scenario.

All day cares should have a settling in period where nthe child will stay for gradually longer periods of time.
Facilitate the moms so they can be around but discourage ntoo much mom involvement. This is where mom needs tontake a back seat and observe rather than interact. Providenone on one support for the child. He may just want to sitnand observe for a while eventually venturing into a group nto participate or play alone with a toy. Let him go at nhis own pace. When mom leaves, distract him immediatelynushering him off to some exciting activity.

Mom,the first day of settling in you will probably stay nin the room, allowing your child to do his own thing butnremaining in sight. Gauge his reactions perhaps stepping nout of the room momentarily explaining that you are making na phone call and are just in the hall. Allow the staff nto distract your child and observe from a distancen(obviously, do not let him see you). When the time comesnfor you to sit in the car or go for a coffee say, bye momnwill see you later, positively with a quick kiss and leaventhe room. If your child cries do not look back, remember,nonce you are out of sight the child will stop crying nshortly and will be distracted by play and activities.

It is very important to establish this drop off routine nfrom day one. Firm and consistent is key with children.
Communication and understanding between parents andnproviders will make for a smooth and enjoyable transitionnfor the child. Now, moms, enjoy your cup of coffee in npeace!!! Providers enjoy your new little personality!