Transitioning to Daycare
Most children who begin care at our facility have previously received care in their home, from a parent, family member or nanny. For some children, transitioning to a small group care environment can be temporarily challenging. In our experience, children younger than 11 months may transition almost immediately to full-time daycare with few difficulties. Children older than 11 months typically require a week or two adjustment period, during which they attend daycare on a part time schedule. Particularly in the 11 month - 3 year range, transitioning to a new care situation can temporarily disrupt the child's nap and eating schedules. We find that the transition is smoother if the child can return home for naptime, until they are comfortable in our environment. With this age group, we find that a gradual adjustment is best - starting with a couple of hours a day and gradually working up to a full time schedule.