Truthfully, most children have problems adjusting to daycare atmosphere after being at home for so many years. One of the major deciding factors can be the way the people at the care place behave, so it is extremely necessary to pick the right one. Though not always an option, many parents make their child’s transition much easier by putting the child with a member of the family or other close acquaintance. When placement with a family or friend is not an option, parents should not worry because they can utilize many other resources.
Among a group of parents, frequently daycare pros and cons are discussed and a parent can learn a lot through this manner. Though this is the easiest resource at a parent’s disposal, it is also frequently the most helpful, as well, because it is through this process that parents learn both the fantastic and awful truth about these facilities. While it is true that not every provider’s personalities will match up with every child’s personality, if there is more than one severe critique lobbied at a provider, there is likely to be a problem with that person.
If you simply want a list of daycare providers to investigate, the Department of Social Services will give you one. Don’t be afraid to solicit the advice of your child’s doctor, who might have advice to give based on what he or she has heard from parents. Of course, if nothing else is giving you success, you can find listings in newspapers and phone books. If your caretaker does not want to meet the child before you enroll them, this should raise a caution. This step should never be skipped because it is essential for the child to be able to get acclimated to the place where they are going to be spending a lot of time.
Ask the daycare staff if it will be okay if the child carries his or her favorite comfort item with them for the first several weeks. Homesickness is the main problem with many children and why they do not immediately enjoy the transition but this step is designed to give them a piece of home while away. Sending a picture of yourself with the child is not necessarily a bad idea, although for many children, it will only cause further distress. Another way to ease the transition is by staying at the facility long enough for your child to get used to playing in this new place. It can also be helpful to let the child know when you will be returning and to do so when you say will. If the child knows when their guardian’s workday will be complete, this will help ease their sense of well being while they are in daycare.
The actual leaving process needs to be as positive as it can be for the child. Children are sensitive and will instantly recognize if you are upset at leaving them, and this will send a message that all is not well with this new situation. Many parents are crushed at seeing their child cry as they leave, but they should keep in mind that most children cry for a limited amount of time after the parents depart. Returning for the child is when you should spend a greater amount of time gushing over his or her bravery - your good-bye should be simple and to the point.
