{"id":357,"date":"2021-02-18T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2021-02-17T13:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.childsplayelc.com.au\/what-to-expect-on-your-first-day-of-childcare\/"},"modified":"2024-01-31T16:41:34","modified_gmt":"2024-01-31T05:41:34","slug":"what-to-expect-on-your-first-day-of-childcare","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.childsplayelc.com.au\/what-to-expect-on-your-first-day-of-childcare\/","title":{"rendered":"What to expect on your first day of childcare?"},"content":{"rendered":"

As parents, we often feel guilty when the time comes to send our children to childcare. There are many reasons why we send them to childcare: we have to start work again, we want them to make friends, or we want them to be prepared for school. The first day can even be more nerve-wracking for parents than we care to admit, as we are hopeful that the transition to childcare<\/a> will be smooth and easy for our children.<\/p>\n

At Child\u2019s Play ELC we want you to feel entirely comfortable sending your child to one of our centres, which is why we have an extensive transition process<\/a> that includes a tour, orientation sessions and consultations with the room leader before your first day.<\/p>\n

The start of the year can always be a busy time, so here\u2019s what to expect on the first day of childcare.<\/p>\n

When to turn up<\/h2>\n

Childcare is part of a new routine which will take some time to adjust to. Be sure to set alarms and reminders on your phone so you have plenty of time to get ready in the morning. It is best practice to try and always be early to childcare so you have plenty of time to say goodbye. Arriving early on your first day means there\u2019s heaps of time to settle them into childcare and ensure they know what’s happening so they won’t be distressed when you go to leave. Another helpful hint is to schedule your orientations around this drop-off time so it is a gradual change to your child\u2019s routine instead of a complete shock. On your first day when you arrive at Child\u2019s Play ELC, our educators will help sign you in and settle your child before you need to leave.<\/p>\n

Pack everything the night before<\/h2>\n

 <\/p>\n

This tip has come from our community of parents. Pack everything the night before so you are not as stressed that very first morning. In particular, create a list of everything you will need with your childcare educators during orientation and check it off with your child before bedtime the day before.<\/p>\n

If your child is going into kindergarten, get them to pick out a special \u201cchildcare\u201d backpack and let them pack everything with you. This will give them some sense of responsibility and help reduce tears on the first day. Having a special bag will also help create a routine where they mentally check off everything in their bag before leaving for kindergarten each day.<\/p>\n

Ask for our leaders\"\"