Settling in to child care initially can be quite difficult for both children and parents, as you are both experiencing separation anxiety for the first time. Separation anxiety is when a child gets upset when separated from a parent or loved carer.
Despite this, separation anxiety is very normal during early childhood and it reflects the child's attempts to hold on to what is safe in a very scary world. Be assured, it will settle down as the child grows older and more confident.
At Kinder Haven we aim to make this transition as easy as possible for your child and yourself.
Young children can often feel confused by their new surroundings, new routines and new faces. It can be difficult for some children to accept new caregivers and to understand that you will return later in the day. However, children are very adaptable and usually within a short period of time they are able to settle in. Every child is different and the time it takes them to settle can vary greatly, that is why we look at each child’s individual needs while they are settling in to their new surrounds.
Parents often take a little longer to accept leaving their child in the care of others. It is not unusual to see a child happily settling down to morning activities with their new friends, whilst their parent walks past with a tear in their eye. We are here to help you through this period, and we feel it is important as a parent that you feel comfortable and at ease while your child is under our care.
Here are some tips to help the settling in period:
• Depending on the age of your child, talk to them and explain why the change is necessary. Talk to your children about the people who will care for them. Even if they do not understand your words, your voice and face will show your love and concern.
• Use the orientation period to gradually increase the time your child spends in child care during their first few weeks. Start with short visits and increase the time to include lunch and a sleep/rest and eventually a full day.
• Communication with the Kinder Haven carers is important and our staff always want to hear about important events in your child’s life such as how well they slept the night before or what they did on the weekend.
• Try not to rush in the mornings. Spend time signing in, putting belongings away and settling your child into an activity.
• Once your child is involved in the activity, this is a chance for a hug, a kiss good-bye and to leave. Do this action confidently, quickly and with a calm goodbye.
• Don't drag out your goodbye but do say goodbye. Your child may seem upset when you leave but most children settle down quite happily. If you are worried about how your child has settled down, you can always telephone later to find out.
• Reassure them they will be picked up and tell them when you will be back. For example: “I’ll be back to pick you up after afternoon tea.” Come back when you say you will.
• When picking up your child, feel free to talk to the staff about how your child has gone on their first day.
• Talk to your child about their first day. Talk about who they have met and what they have enjoyed doing. Get your child to show you what they have been doing.
• Talk with your child and staff to find out what they enjoying doing at Kinder Haven. You can then join in this experience with your child when you arrive.
• Your child may settle easier on some days. This can depend on what’s been happening in their life. For example: a late night, visitors.
Remember
• Be kind to yourself; take one day at a time.
• Talk to the staff and ask for help or advice if you are concerned about something.
• Talk to other parents/guardians to share ideas and support.
• You are welcome to phone the Centre at any time throughout the day to check on your child.
Establishing a good relationship with our staff is very important. All of our staff are available to discuss any concerns you have at any time. Feel free to discuss anything: your worries; everyday things your child does or does not like; their behaviour and sleeping pattern after each day at the Centre.
Your child will continue to thrive at Kinder Haven and home if we all provide a warm, loving atmosphere where he/she feels relaxed and secure.
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