Training to Become a Child Care Specialist

For many parents, the transition of taking their children to day care for the first time can be an emotional experience for everybody. Children and parents both struggle with the first few days going to a new caregiver, which can be difficult when you have other obligations such as work.Fortunately, you have several different options to ease the transition, making the process much simpler.

Design a Schedule that Works for You

One of the best things you can do for your child is to set a schedule that works well for your family. You should also give yourself time in advance to prepare for your new schedule, waking up early and establishing a routine. Additionally, make sure that you wake up early in the mornings to prepare for the day and have breakfast together.

Be Confident in Your Choice

The better you feel about your decision to leave your child in day care, the less you will worry during this transition period. You can feel more confident about your choice when you have done your research. For example, you should visit the facility or home first and build trust with the caregiver.

Read Up on Facility Policies

Your day care should offer written or electronic policies that instruct you how to proceed in certain circumstances. For instance, how much notice do you need to give before vacation? What are potential food restrictions in the facility? Don't get caught off guard by policies you don't expect.

Make the Transition Exciting

Going to day care does not have to be intimidating or fear-inducing in your child. You can make the transition exciting by focusing on giving your child a positive concept of day care. For instance, consider buying a new outfit or pair of shoes that help your child become excited for his or her first day at day care. Your child will focus more on this than the other events of the day.

Bring Something from Home

Many children in day care do well with bringing items from home to day care. For instance, being able to snuggle with a familiar blanket or having the ability to look at a family photo can have a calming effect on a child who has never been away from home for long.

Take Care of Yourself

Finally, don't forget to take care of yourself along the way. Taking your child to day care for the first time can have an emotional impact on you as well.

Contact a school, like Carousel Of Learning Pre-School & Nursery, for more help.