Things to Do Once Your Child Has Started Daycare
Starting daycare is a big milestone for both you and your little one. To help your child thrive in this new environment and build a strong partnership with their caregivers, there are several important steps you can take. Check out our latest blog Prepare Your Baby for Daycare: 8 Essential Steps for some more tips.
Here are seven essential practices that will set your child up for success and make the daycare experience smoother for everyone involved.
1. Share Important Information Each Morning
Communication is key when your little one starts daycare. Take a few moments each morning to brief your child's teachers on essential details that will help them provide the best care throughout the day. Let them know about your child's sleep the night before, what time they woke up, whether they had breakfast, and (if applicable) when they last had a bottle. Also mention any new bumps, bruises, or anything else that might affect their comfort or behavior during the day.
2. Be Honest About Illness
If your child is under the weather, it's important to be upfront with daycare staff. Illness policies exist for good reason—they're based on health authority recommendations designed to stop the spread of illness and keep all the children in care safe and healthy.
3. Request Specific Updates About Your Child's Day
If you'd like detailed information about how your child spent their time at daycare, let your teachers know in the morning. This helps them prepare to observe and document the things that matter most to you. Daycare is busy. Your teachers do their best to observe all the amazing things your child is doing but giving them specific requests is very helpful.
4. Pack Extra Clothes
Always keep extra clothes in your child's basket or cubby. Accidents happen, spills occur, and having backup outfits on hand ensures your little one stays comfortable and dry throughout the day.
5. Prepare Appropriate Outside Gear
Make sure your child has the right clothing and gear for outdoor play in all seasons. Whether it's rain jackets, sun hats, or warm layers, being prepared keeps playtime safe and enjoyable. It is a licensing requirement that children get at least 60 minutes of active play outside each day—rain or shine!
6. Pack Safe, Nutritious Food
When sending food from home, cut everything into age-appropriate, safe-sized pieces—grapes, blueberries, and sausage should all be cut up. Keep meals nut-free and focus on nutritious options rather than junk food. This supports your child's health and respects any allergies in the daycare environment.
7. Leave Home Toys at Home
Personal toys should stay home. This prevents loss, damage, and keeps the focus on the toys and activities provided by the daycare. One comfort item, such as a teddy bear and soft stuffed animal, is always welcomed.
By following these seven guidelines, you'll help create a positive daycare experience for your child while supporting their teachers in providing excellent care. Strong communication, preparation, and consistency between home and daycare lead to happier children and more confident parents. Remember, you and your child's caregivers are partners in their growth and development—working together makes all the difference!