Many parents have questions about how to prepare their child for daycare or kindergarten. Sending your child off to their first childcare environment is an important milestone for any family. It is natural to feel overwhelmed or not know where to start. For a smooth transition, we spoke with Dr. Emily Koelsch, pediatrician with Pediatrics of Sleepy Hollow, for some actionable tips.
Dr. Koelsch is also the board president of the Childcare Council of Westchester, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to supporting local families in their childcare journey. She notes that most counties in New York have a similar organization and encourages parents to check it out. “I have a special place in my heart for childcare and early education, and I want families to know they are not in this alone. Local resources like childcare councils are a free service.”
Dr. Koelsch emphasizes that children, and toddlers especially, need structure. If they are starting kindergarten and have already been in daycare for a while, the transition is often easier. But if this is their first time in a childcare environment, be sure to talk to them about it beforehand. Prep them a little bit every day by telling them what will happen. For example, say that you will take them there and stay for a while, then leave, and then come back. Tell them about the people they will meet and the fun activities, toys, or new friends they will experience.
You know your child best, and some kids are more anxious than others. Spend more time talking to them if they are shy or seem worried. “Books can also be lovely way to prep them,” says Dr. Koelsch. If you find an age-appropriate book about the first day at daycare or kindergarten, you can read it to them over and over so they get used to the idea.
Keep in mind that there is a lot of research about the benefits of childcare before age 5. Dr. Koelsch says it is important for both brain development and learning social skills. “They are like little sponges, and it can help with their education. High quality pre-K can help them do better in kindergarten and then going into grade school and high school.”
When you are going on daycare and school tours or meeting with providers, Dr. Koelsch recommends asking the following questions:
Every child is different, but a healthy adjustment period is often a couple of weeks, says Dr. Koelsch. Some kids get into the swing of things within a few days. If your daycare staff is trained in child development, they can tell you what they are seeing with your child and what is typical, or any recommendations. Get their feedback and don’t be afraid to ask questions. You can discuss anything you are concerned about with their pediatrician.
When it comes to getting sick, Dr. Koelsch reminds everyone that it will happen, and this is a good thing. As children are exposed to more viruses and germs from social interactions and shared spaces, they develop immunity. “They will get through it, get better, and then they won’t pick up everything as much, usually after a year or so,” she says. The main symptoms to watch for and keep your child home with are fever, coughing, and not feeling well enough to play or enjoy their day. Runny noses are normal! If in doubt, however, it’s best to keep them home to prevent spreading anything to other kids. We all wish you the best in this exciting new chapter for your family!