First day of daycare, some tips to face it well

The first day of daycare will always be a special moment for both parents and child. A step towards something new and unknown that the little one will face alone, perhaps for the first time. Some tips to better face this new experience.

September is the time to restart. For children and teenagers it's time to go back to school. But there is a beginning that is more important than others, and that is the daycare (also called "maternal"). Daycare represents a decisive step for the little ones because it is the first separation of the child from his parents and from his family context.

A moment that parents sometimes live with apprehension, worried by the feelings that their children are about to experience. The sense of detachment, finding yourself in a new environment with adults who are not your reference ones. All these thoughts are normal because they arise from a single concern “How will he make it without me? Will the teachers be able to understand her needs ? “.

Concerns that have invested the minds of almost all mothers and fathers, especially if the children have not attended nursery school. But which can be survived with some advice above all because, one must always keep in mind that what worries mom and dad, consequently creates anxieties and insecurities in the children.

Daycare is a fundamental stage, but be careful not to create anxiety

Among the most important advice, there is undoubtedly that of not showing your worries to the child, to avoid fear and nervousness, but prepare him, telling him about the new experience he will have, about school, teachers, friends and the many games and activities that will be available.

The child must be prepared and aware of what is about to happen but without burdening him with expectations, rather talking to him normally, explaining that going to the daycare is part of his daily life, like going to work for mum and dad. Because the first day of daycare is indeed an important moment, but it is part of being a child.

It might be useful, perhaps, some time before showing the child to see the daycare, so that he begins to familiarize himself with the place, and if possible to introduce him to the daycare staff.

advices to face well the first day of daycare

Ready for the new adventure ?

If the beginning of this journey is stressful for children, it is also for parents. It's not just about living the detachment, but changing habits and daily routines, reorganizing schedules. Especially after the summer rhythms.

In this regard, it is advisable to return from vacation a few weeks earlier to allow the child to re-modulate sleep and wake times, go to bed earlier and wake up early in the morning.

Obviously we must respect their times and understand that he will slowly get used to his new life, taking into account tears and tantrums.

Some useful advices

If possible, the child must be accompanied to daycare, especially the first few days, by a parent, preferably both. The child will feel safe because mum and dad share the moment and are happy to accompany him towards the new experience.
Let the child bring a toy or stuffed animal that he is fond of, after making sure that the childcare allows it, it could be a way to feel less alone.
Each daycare has its own method of entry, not all of them allow parents to stay on the first day. If this is not possible, say goodbye to the child by showing off your best smile and holding back the tears. If his reaction is that of crying, calm him down gently but firmly. Crying is normal, it's in a new place and it's about to leave you, but don't indulge it. Get away, the babysitters will know how to comfort him. Because most of the time the tantrums subside when the mothers are no longer present.
Always greet him before leaving, so the child won't feel abandoned.
Be punctual at the exit, he must find you there, waiting for him.
Serenely enjoy his progress and the steps towards his independence. It is part of life and its growth. Though special, the first day of daycare is her normality !

First day of daycare, some tips to face it well

Daycare is a fundamental stage, but be careful not to create anxiety

Ready for the new adventure ?

Some useful advices

Location of our daycare in Verdun