Preparation for the First Day - Part 2

Now, let's get into some of the really important tasks that you should think of when preparing for the first day.

Talk with your child about all the fun things that he'll do at daycare. There might be field trips, there will most definitely be toys, and he'll make lots of new friends. Let him/her bring something special from home, like their comforter. Over time the need for these transition objects will diminish.

Be Reliable, make sure that he/she knows when you'll be back to get him, and don't be late. Better yet, be early! Telling your child when you will be back in terms that they can understand may help alleviate their fears. Telling them you’ll be back after lunch or naptime gives them a familiar event to go by .

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Develop a Good Bye Ritual, during stressful times most children thrive on rituals as they find them reassuring. So plan a special way to say goodbye. Some parents try to sneak out when their child is not watching, to avoid any tears. Don't do this! Your child needs to know that they can trust you, and sneaking out does not foster a sense of trust. Say goodbye, give a hug and kiss, and head out. If your child is crying, it's pretty much guaranteed that he'll stop before you get to the end of the street.

When it’s time to leave your child for the first few days, make the visits shorter. Don’t leave them all day. Having shorter visits will provide time to adjust and allow them to learn by experience that you will return. Remember to have a calm and positive attitude. Babies and toddlers are especially sensitive to your moods and are quick to pick up any tension in your voice, face, touch or mannerisms