Exploring Learning In Childcare Settings

Ways To Prepare Your Child For A Child Care Environment

21 July 2022

Harry Hawkins

It can be challenging for your child to adapt to a new environment. However, this issue shouldn't worry you. Once your child meets other children and discovers that child care is fun, they will get accustomed to their new surroundings. You can help them through this transition by preparing them physically and mentally.

Here are ways to help your kid adapt to a child care environment.

Visit the Child Care Center

You need to visit the child care facility with your child. Talk to the caregivers and find any important information you may need. During the process, ensure your child observes their surroundings, especially other children. Gauge their response and explain how much they will enjoy being there. Always use positive language and don't mention loudly any doubts or fears you may have.

Create in the child's mind an exciting and fun picture. Tell them about the fun activities they will enjoy, how they will love playing and sharing toys with other children, and all the fantastic new things they will learn.

Enhance Your Relationship with the Caregiver

When you build a positive relationship with the caregiver, your child will view them as friends rather than threats. Children are very observant and quickly pick up on social dynamics between adults. Also, let their caregiver talk to your child in your presence. This step will make your child develop trust in the staff.

Write Down and Verbally Explain Things about Your Child

You should tell the caregiver about your child's important details, such as allergies if they have any, their favorite activities and food, their dislikes, and any unique behavior that may catch the staff off-guard. You can write down the information and include it in your child's file. Caregivers are human, and so they may forget some details.

Leave a Comfort Item

If the child care center allows it, you can leave your child with one of their favorite items, such as a teddy bear or toy. These items can help your child deal with separation anxiety by reminding them of something familiar. 

Make Changes to Their Sleeping Schedule

You should inquire about the childcare's nap schedules and find a way to balance them with your child's sleeping schedule at home. You may have to wake up your child earlier than usual.

You can prepare them for the new changes by waking them up a little earlier before they start attending childcare. Also, ensure your child goes to bed on time, so they don't struggle to wake up in the morning. 

For more information, visit a local child care center. 

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