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First entry into a daycare: how to prepare your child?
Entering a daycare is an important step for the whole family. New place, new people, new habits: it is normal that this transition raises some questions, both for the child and for his parents.
The good news? It is not necessary to prepare everything perfectly. Each child is different and discovers the nursery at his or her own pace. Here are some points of reference to accompany this new stage serenely.
How to prepare your child for his or her arrival at the nursery?
In the days or weeks leading up to the start of the nursery, you can simply talk about this new adventure with your child, in a positive and age-appropriate way.
Explain that he will discover a new place, meet other children, play and be accompanied by new adults.
You can also show them photos of the nursery or take advantage of the familiarization interview to gradually introduce them to the places and the people who will accompany them.
There is no need to multiply the explanations: a few simple and reassuring words may be enough. The main thing is to give the child the opportunity to discover this new environment gradually.
The familiarisation period: a smooth adaptation
Familiarization allows the child to gradually discover the daycare and to build his first landmarks.
First entry into a daycare: how to prepare your child?
It usually takes about a week, but can be extended to two weeks or more depending on the child. The team is there to adapt the program according to their experience.
At the beginning, the parent usually stays with his child in the group for a while. This presence allows him to discover the place and the team while maintaining a familiar landmark.
Then, the first separations are gradually introduced and the duration of presence at the daycare increases according to the needs of the child.
What if my child cries at the time of separation?
Crying at the time of departure is frequent and completely normal. It often expresses the child's emotions in the face of this new situation and the separation from his parent.
To help him, a simple, calm and reassuring departure is usually preferable. Explain to him that you are leaving and that you will come back to pick him up. Even if he cries, he gradually learns that his parent can leave... and always comes back.
A transitional object, such as a cuddly toy, a pacifier or a small piece of clothing with the scent of a parent, can also be reassuring during the first few days.
And above all, trust the team that accompanies your child. In many cases, children quickly regain their calm after their parent leaves and gradually let themselves be carried away by the activities and life of the group.
A step for the child... and for his parents
It is also quite normal for the first few days to be emotionally charged for parents. Do not hesitate to share your questions or concerns with the team.
Communication between the family and the daycare gradually creates a relationship of trust and ensures continuity between the home and the daycare.
Every child has their own rhythm
Entering a daycare is a transition that is built gradually. There is no one right way to live this stage: some children adapt quickly, others need more time.
The main thing is to offer them reassuring landmarks, a separation accompanied with kindness and an environment in which they can gradually find their place.