A Parent's Guide to Sending Toddlers to Child Care for the First Time
Michael Reisman, M.Ed.
Sending your toddler to child care is a significant milestone for both you and your child. It can be an emotional and daunting experience, but with the right preparation and mindset, you can make the transition smoother and more positive for everyone involved. Here are some essential tips to help you and your toddler adjust to this new chapter at River Crossing YMCA.
1. Prepare Your Toddler Gradually
Introduce your toddler to the idea of YMCA child care gradually. Talk to them about what to expect, and read books or watch videos about going to school. If possible, arrange for a few short visits to the center before their first day. This helps your toddler become familiar with the new environment and teachers.
2. Plan and Establish a Consistent Drop-Off Routine
Consistency is key when it comes to drop-offs. Develop a simple and predictable routine that reassures your toddler. This might include a special goodbye ritual, such as a hug, kiss, or a specific phrase. Keeping the goodbye short and sweet can help reduce separation anxiety. This may be more challenging for parents than they expect, but when you drop off, make it a clean drop-off and exude confidence. Some of us have had to “fake it til we made it” when dropping off for the first time. If you are emotional, which is totally reasonable and to be expected, your child will take that cue from you, but interpret it as emotion he or she understands, such as fear, sadness or badness. You want to show them that their new school is a great time for meeting friends, playing and learning, so you’ll want to do all you can to crank up that smile as you say goodbye and head for the door.
HELPFUL HINT: Your River Crossing YMCA child care team understands how you are feeling, and wants to support you. It is okay to say goodbye, confidently exit, then call from the car, and cry if need be. This is a big deal, and as important and triumphant as it is, it can hurt. We’ve got your back!
3. Communicate with Caregivers
Establish open communication with your Y child care team. Share important information about your toddler's likes, dislikes, routines, and any special needs. Check in by phone any time! River Crossing YMCA employs communication tools to share photos and learning stories throughout their week, so when your center leadership sends you information about how to download apps and log in, be sure to follow through so you can track your toddler’s adjustment. Knowing how your child's day is going can provide peace of mind and help you address any issues promptly.
4. Packing Comfort Items
Check with your River Crossing YMCA child care team to find out what comfort items from home are safe to have in the classroom or cubbies. Having a familiar item can provide a sense of security and comfort during the initial days of child care.
5. Create a Consistent Routine at Home
Maintaining a consistent routine at home can help your toddler feel more secure. Stick to regular meal times, naps, and bedtime schedules. Consistency at home can provide stability and predictability, making the transition to child care smoother.
6. Be Patient with the Adjustment Period
Every child adjusts to school and care at their own pace. Be patient and understanding if your toddler experiences some initial separation anxiety or behavior changes. Provide extra comfort and reassurance during this period, and celebrate small milestones as they adapt to their new routine.
7. Make Quality Time a Priority
Spending quality time with your toddler outside of child care is crucial. Engage in activities they enjoy, read together, play, and have meaningful conversations. This helps strengthen your bond and ensures that they feel loved and supported.
River Crossing YMCA child development centers and schools are excited to partner with all of our families to make sure your child’s experience, and YOUR experience, goes as smoothly as possible. All children and families are unique, yet have very similar and consistent needs as they grow. Don’t forget, you are still growing too, and we are here to provide support along the way. Please do not hesitate to bring concerns or questions about your child’s care to the attention of their teachers and center directors. Congratulations on getting to this point! The ride is just beginning.
Michael Reisman is Association Director of Communications for River Crossing YMCA. Michael earned a BA in Journalism from Rutgers University in 1997 and Masters Degree in Education from the University of Washington in 2011. Michael has served the YMCA community since 2017, and has over 18 years experience leading and teaching in early childhood education.