What to Expect on Your Child'sFirst Day at Daycare

The first day at daycare is an exciting milestone, both for parents and children. It marks

the beginning of a new routine and new experiences for your little one. While it's a

significant change, knowing what to expect can help ease the transition. In this guide, we’ll

walk you through what you can expect on your child’s first day at daycare, including how

to handle separation anxiety, and provide answers to some common questions.

1. What is the Hardest Age to Start Daycare?

The hardest age to start daycare varies for each child, but generally, infants between 6

months and 18 months tend to struggle the most with separation. At this age, babies are

forming stronger attachments to their primary caregivers, which can make the transition

to daycare more challenging.

However, older toddlers may also experience anxiety, especially if they’re not used to

being away from home. While every child is different, it's important to keep in mind that

with consistency and reassurance, children of all ages can adjust over time.

2. How Can I Work in a Daycare with No Experience?

If you're looking to work in a daycare but don't have prior experience, there are several

pathways you can take:

• Education and Certifications: While formal experience might not be required, many

daycare centers prefer staff to have relevant training or certifications, such as CPR

and First Aid. You can also pursue courses in early childhood education.

• Internships and Volunteering: Gaining experience through internships or volunteering

can help build your resume and give you hands-on experience working with children

in a daycare setting.

• Start Small: Many daycares offer entry-level positions, such as an assistant or

caregiver, which require little to no experience but provide opportunities to learn on

the job.

If you're passionate about working with children, starting with basic childcare training and

gaining experience through practical work can help you get started in this rewarding field.

3. How Long Does It Take for a Baby to Adjust to Daycare?

The adjustment period for babies can vary widely. Generally, it can take anywhere from a

few days to a few weeks for a baby to feel comfortable in daycare. During this period,

babies may cry or show signs of distress, especially during drop-offs.

Most daycare centers understand that it can take time for babies to adjust and will work

with parents to make the transition smoother. They might suggest shorter days at first or

allow parents to stay for a brief period to ease the baby into the environment.

Patience is key during this time, and with consistent routines and plenty of love and

reassurance, your baby will eventually adjust.

4. Is It Normal for a Baby to Cry on the First Day of Daycare?

Yes, it is completely normal for a baby to cry on the first day of daycare. Separation

anxiety is a common response for children who are not used to being away from their

parents. Babies may feel confused, scared, or upset when they are left in an unfamiliar

place with unfamiliar faces.

To help ease this, it’s important to:

• Establish a Consistent Routine: Babies thrive on routine, so try to keep the morning

routine as predictable as possible.

• Have a Goodbye Ritual: Create a special routine for saying goodbye, such as a hug,

kiss, and reassuring words, to help your baby feel secure.

• Stay Calm and Confident: Babies can sense their parent’s emotions, so if you stay

calm and confident, it will help your baby feel more at ease.

Remember, while it’s hard to see your baby upset, most babies adjust within a few days or

weeks.

Looking for Early Learning Programs?

At BandJ Daycare, our Pre-K 3 Program offers a structured environment designed to

support your child's development during their formative years. This program provides a

nurturing atmosphere where children learn through play, creativity, and interaction with

others.