Many families have a difficult time adjusting when their kids go to child care for the first time. Children may be scared to go, and parents are often worried their little ones won’t like it or that they aren’t ready. Thankfully, there are some ways you can help your kids prepare for this big change. Below, Big Blue Bird Early Childhood Center in Lexington, KY, shares four tips to help your family ease into day care in a way that’s positive for everyone.

Prepare Your Kids for Child Care With These 4 Tips

1. Practice Separation

Don’t let your kid’s first day of child care be the first time you’ve ever been away from them. Leave your children with the babysitter or trusted loved ones for several hours here and there, so they are comfortable being away from you.

2. Follow a Schedule

Day cares follow specific schedules each day. You can practice these routines at home by setting times for getting up, eating, playing, and going to bed. It’ll be easier to transition into a new schedule when your kids are used to their own version at home.

3. Promote Socialization

Little ones meet important developmental milestones by socializing with their peers in child care. Encourage your kids to hang out with others their age at the park, in playgroups, and classes, so they’re ready to do so at day care.

4. Talk About Child Care

Your kids will fare better in child care when they know what to expect. Talk with them about what it will be like before you first drop them off. Tell your kids about their new schedule, how they’ll play and learn, and how they’ll make new friends. Getting your children excited is a great move, as they’ll soon want to go to day care so they can be with their friends and learn new things.

Child care centers provide programming that helps kids get ready to enter preschool and kindergarten. Attending day care is an important stepping stone in this progression, and you can make the move easier on your family by following the tips above. To enroll kids ages six weeks to three years in child care, call Big Blue Bird Early Childhood Center at (859) 299-9277. Visit their website to learn about their infant and toddler programs; potty training assistance; and the fun games, music, and creative activities your child will enjoy while attending the child care center.