The first day of anything is always filled with some level of uncertainty, so it should come as no surprise that your child's first day at their childcare center might be a tense experience. However, it does not have to be a stressful one. There are things you can do as a parent to make your child's transition to the classroom easier.

1. The Pre-first Day

Your child's first day attending the childcare center should not be their first day there. It is generally best to have a pre-first day. On the pre-first day, your child should have a chance to explore the center and meet some of the staff with you by their side. This pre-visit helps your child feel more comfortable and confident in the new space. 

2. The Big Event

Once you have the pre-first day, spend as much time as you can talking up their first day as a big event. Children love anticipation, and the more you talk about all the great experiences they will have while at their school, the more anticipation will build. From playtime to learning to meeting all the other children at the school, keep telling your child about the great time they will have.

3. An Open Schedule

Again, your child's first day will be full of uncertainties because you do not know what will happen until it happens. For this reason, it is a good idea to ensure you have an open schedule and are not in a rush to be anywhere in case you need to stay with your child longer than expected. 

4. A Comforting Companion

Please speak with the staff to ensure there are no issues with bringing one of your child's keepsakes with them. For example, if your child has a blanket they sleep with, bring it to the center for nap time. These items help comfort your child when they feel unsettled and can make the transition easier. 

5. An Early Goodbye

The worst thing to do on your child's first day is to linger around the center. The sooner you leave, the quicker your child's natural independent instincts can kick in, and the more comfortable they will be. To combat the emotions of the first day, go through all your goodbye routines before you take your child inside.

The goal of any parent is to ensure their child is happy. By following these tips, you can have greater confidence that your child will have an excellent experience from day one.  

 For more info, contact a local child day care center.