Entering the world of daycare is a significant milestone for both parents and their little ones. In Ireland, most babies start crèche around 12 months for two main reasons. First, most crèches no longer offer rooms that accommodate younger babies, and it's also when all the parental leave available in Ireland concludes.
This change can bring about mixed feelings, but adequate preparation and assistance can facilitate the transition for both parents and their little ones. In this guide, we will dive into the steps involved in introducing your 12-month-old to daycare and provide helpful suggestions to ensure a positive experience.
Understanding the Challenges of Transitioning to Crèche:
Many parents face a mixture of excitement and worry when considering sending their baby to crèche. While they provide important socialisation and educational opportunities for young children, the transition can bring about feelings of anxiety and uncertainty for both parents and their little ones.
By the age of 12 months, infants have developed strong bonds with their primary caregivers, sometimes showing separation anxiety in new settings and with unfamiliar people. Transitioning from the comfort of home to the active environment of daycare can be challenging for some children, resulting in emotional distress and struggles with adapting.
Tips for Introducing Your Child to Crèche:
Gradual Introduction: Help your child transition smoothly to daycare by arranging short, gradual visits before their official start date. This approach allows your child to spend time in the daycare setting, meet caregivers, and interact with other children. These visits can help your child become familiar with the new environment and lessen any anxiety they may feel.
If the childcare staff are open to this method, begin with 1-2 hours daily for a few days, then gradually extend it over the week. For babies on 2 naps a day, also consider letting them have their first nap at the crèche a few days after their initial visit. If your child takes a single midday nap, consider being available for early pickups when the naps are short as they may require an early bedtime.
Establish a Consistent Routine: Establish a consistent morning routine before dropping off your child at daycare, and over the weekends follow the same routine. Creating a consistent schedule can offer a sense of comfort and stability for your child during times of transition.
Open Communication with Caregivers: Encourage transparent communication with your child's daycare staff. Provide essential details about your child's preferences, habits, daily routines, and any specific requirements they may have. Developing a supportive and cooperative bond with the staff can guarantee that your child gets individualised care and assistance.
Have a Transition Object: Introduce a special comfort item, like a stuffed animal or blanket, for your child to bring to daycare. A familiar item from home can offer reassurance and comfort when they are away from you.
Pro Tip: If this item is new and your child hasn’t yet grown attached to a lovey you can sleep (yes, you) with the item for a few nights beforehand, so the item has your scent. When your child is in crèche, they will feel more connected to you.
Be Your Child's Safe Place: Your child will be away from you for hours each day, and this can cause children to bottle up emotions they don’t feel safe letting out. After an intense day your child may cry when they see you because, with you, they feel safe.
Practice Separation: Practice short separations from your child in the weeks leading up to daycare. Gradually increase the duration of separations to help your child become more comfortable with being apart from you.
Expect a Messy Schedule: During the first few weeks, as your child adapts, expect your routine to be messy. If your child was previously sleeping through the night they might start waking once again. These can vary from separation anxiety, overtiredness, overstimulation or even hunger.
When to Sleep Train: If your child is beginning daycare this year, you may be contemplating the need for them to develop sleep independence in advance. For a gentle approach, it's essential to be patient with both your baby and you. Ideally, allocate 2 months before the daycare starts, as gentle methods require time. If your baby is commencing daycare in less than 3 weeks, it might be best to wait and allow 3 to 4 weeks for them to adjust to this big change before using any sleep training methods.
Sickness: When children spend time together, illnesses can spread; it's a common part of life. Anticipating this can avoid any surprises. Consider discussing a flexible work schedule with your boss during the initial three months as your baby strengthens their immune system.
Stay Positive and Patient: Keep a positive mindset and handle the transition with patience and empathy. Acknowledge and celebrate your child's accomplishments, regardless of their size, and provide ample support, encouragement, and commendation throughout the journey.
Take Care of Yourself: Remember to make self-care a priority during this transitional phase. By looking after your physical and emotional health, you'll be better equipped to support your child through this period of change.
Following these strategies and methods will ensure that your child and your family have a positive and rewarding transition to daycare. Keep in mind that each child is different, so approach this new phase with understanding and adaptability. With love, understanding, and encouragement, your child will flourish in their new setting and develop and learn daily.
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