The transition from home to a child care program is a big milestone—one that often comes with a mix of emotions for both parents and children. While it can be exciting to see your little one take this next step, it’s also natural to feel a bit nervous about the unknown. Fortunately, with a few thoughtful strategies and supportive routines, you can ease the transition and help your child start child care or preschool with confidence.

Laying the Groundwork: General Tips for All Ages
No matter your child’s age, there are some tried-and-true ways to make the shift to child care smoother:

• Visit Ahead of Time: If possible, take your child to visit the child care program or school before their first official day. This helps them get used to the environment and meet some of the children and caregivers.
• Read Books About Starting School: Storytime is a great way to introduce new experiences. There are wonderful picture books designed to prepare children emotionally for preschool or daycare (see suggestions at the end).
• Talk About the Routine: Go over what a typical day might look like drop-off, snack time, nap, pick-up so they know what to expect. Use visuals like routine charts or drawings if helpful.
• Bring a Comfort Object: If the program allows, pack a small transitional item like a soft toy or family photo. For infants, something that smells like a parent (like a worn shirt or blanket, NOT for use during sleep) can offer comfort.
• Normalize Feelings:: Let your child know it’s okay to feel a little nervous or sad. Share stories about your own first days and how things got better.

Age-by-Age Transition Support

Every stage of development offers different opportunities to prepare your child for time away from home. Here’s how you can support them, tailored to their age and stage:

0–6 Months

Whether your baby is headed to daycare now or in the future, now is the perfect time to build habits that support future transitions.

Focus On:

• Attachment & Routine: A consistent daily rhythm (feeding, naps, playtime) helps your baby feel secure and know what to expect.
• Language Exposure: Narrate your day, sing songs, and read books aloud. Early exposure lays the foundation for communication.
• Sensory Play: Provide a range of sights, textures, and sounds to stimulate development and comfort with new experiences.

1-2 Years

This is when many children begin exploring independently, making it an ideal time to start prepping for future separations.

Prep Ideas:

• Short Separations: Practice leaving your child with a trusted adult for brief periods to help them build trust in your return.
• Social Play: Arrange playdates with other young children to build comfort with peers and shared play.
• Simple Routines: Begin establishing consistent wake-up, mealtime, and bedtime routines similar to what they'll experience in child care.
• Simple Routines: Begin establishing consistent wake-up, mealtime, and bedtime routines similar to what they'll experience in child care.
• Language Growth: Label objects and emotions in daily life and encourage simple phrases like “more juice” or “all done.”

2-3 Years

This is a key age for building independence and communication skills that will support success in a group setting.

Prep Ideas:

• Practice Transitions: Use simple countdowns or timers to signal changes ("In 5 minutes, we’ll clean up").
• Encourage Independence: Let them practice putting on their shoes, washing hands, or tidying up toys.
• Name & Express Emotions:Help them identify feelings through words or books about emotions.
• Visit New Places: Attend storytime at the library or walk by the child care center to grow comfortable with unfamiliar settings.

3-4 Years

At this stage, many children begin preschool. It's a prime time for building school readiness and emotional resilience.

Prep Ideas:

• Pretend Play School: Act out a day at school with stuffed animals or take turns being the teacher and student.
• Read Books About School: Choose books that model preschool routines and reassure children about separation (see list below).
• Establish a Bedtime Routine:Ensure they get enough rest to be alert and ready for learning.
• Talk About Feelings:Use open-ended questions like “How do you feel about starting school?” and offer reassurance.

4-5 Years

This is the year before kindergarten, where confidence and problem-solving skills take center stage.

Prep Ideas:

• Talk About the School Day: Use a visual chart to walk through what happens from drop-off to pick-up.
• Skill Practice: Encourage name recognition, counting everyday objects, and drawing basic shapes.
• Teach Problem-Solving: Walk through small challenges (“What could you do if a friend grabs your toy?”) to build resilience.
• Celebrate Small Wins: Whether it’s zipping a jacket or writing their name, acknowledge their growth and independence.

Book Recommendations for Every Stage

Stories are a powerful tool to help children make sense of new experiences and big feelings. Here are some favorites:

Emotional Reassurance & Separation Anxiety

• Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney A gentle, rhyming story about missing mom on the first day but learning she always comes back.
• The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn A comforting classic where a mama raccoon leaves a kiss in her child’s palm as a reminder of love.
• Owl Babies by Martin Waddell Three little owls worry when their mother is gone—but she always returns.

First Day of Child Care or Preschool

• Maisy Goes to Preschool by Lucy Cousins Bright and cheerful introduction to what happens during a preschool day.
• Bye-Bye Time by Elizabeth Verdick Helps toddlers understand daily goodbyes and how to manage feelings of separation.
• Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes Wemberly worries about everything, especially school. This story helps children know they’re not alone in feeling nervous.

Social Skills & Daily Routines

• Rosie Goes to Preschool by Karen Katz Explores routines, friendships, and emotions in a way that’s easy for young children to grasp.
• Daniel Goes to School by Becky Friedman (Daniel Tiger series) Daniel Tiger models how to cope with separation and enjoy time at school.
• I Love You All Day Long by Francesca Rusackas Reassures children that their parent’s love is with them even when apart..

Final Thoughts
Transitions take time, and it’s okay for your child and you to have big feelings about this new chapter. By preparing gradually, staying consistent with routines, and offering lots of reassurance, you’re helping your child build the confidence they need to thrive in child care and beyond.

Remember: You're not alone. Your child care provider is your partner in this journey. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them with questions, concerns, or just to check in. Together, you can create a smooth, supportive start for your little one’s exciting new adventure.