A Child Starting in a Childcare Centre
Starting childcare is a big change for a child and their family. It can be an exciting experience,
but it can also bring feelings of anxiety, uncertainty and separation. Every child responds
differently to starting childcare, so educators need to be patient, understanding and supportive
during the transition.
What to Expect
When a child first starts at a childcare centre, they may take some time to become comfortable
with the new environment. They are meeting new educators and children, learning new routines
and spending time away from their family.
Some children may settle quickly, while others may need more time. A child may cry at dropoff,
become quiet, want to stay close to an educator or have difficulty participating in activities.
These reactions can be normal when adjusting to a new environment.
The child will gradually become familiar with the daily routine, such as arrival, meals, play,
outdoor time, toileting or diapering, rest and departure. Having consistent routines can help
children feel safe and know what to expect.
Difficulties During the Transition
One of the biggest difficulties for a child starting childcare can be separation from their parent or
caregiver. The child may cry or become upset when the parent leaves. Educators can support the
child by acknowledging their feelings, providing comfort and helping them become engaged in
an activity or routine.
A child may also have difficulty communicating their needs, especially if they are shy or still
developing their language skills. Educators should observe the child’s behaviour and learn how
they communicate their needs.
Some children may experience changes in eating, sleeping, toileting or behaviour while they
adjust. These changes should be approached with patience and communicated with the family.
Sicknesses
When children begin childcare, they may be exposed to common childhood illnesses because
they are spending time around other children. They may experience colds, coughs, fevers or
stomach illnesses.
Educators should follow the centre’s health and illness policies and communicate with families if
a child shows signs of being unwell. Parents and educators should work together to ensure the
child receives appropriate care and that illness is managed according to the centre’s procedures.
Good hygiene practices, including handwashing and cleaning, are important in helping reduce
the spread of illness.
Supporting the Child
The educators’ role is to help the child feel safe, secure, welcomed and included. Educators can
learn about the child’s interests, personality, routines, comfort items and ways of communicating.
Building a trusting relationship with the child can make the transition easier. Simple things such
as greeting the child by name, getting down to their level, listening to them, offering choices and
joining them in play can help them feel comfortable.
Educators should also encourage the child’s independence while providing support when needed.
The child should be given opportunities to explore, play, make choices and develop new skills at
their own pace.
Working With the Family
Communication between the family and educators is very important when a child is starting
childcare. Families can provide valuable information about the child’s routines, likes and
dislikes, comfort strategies, sleep patterns, eating habits and individual needs.
Educators should share information with families about how the child is settling and any
significant changes they observe. Open and respectful communication helps everyone work
together to support the child.
Working as a Team
All educators working with the child should communicate with each other and share relevant
information. Consistency between educators can help the child feel secure.
The team should work together to understand the child’s needs, support their development and
respond appropriately to any difficulties. If concerns arise, educators should follow the centre’s
procedures and discuss them with the appropriate supervisor and family.
Following Policies and Procedures
The childcare centre’s policies and procedures help ensure that children are cared for safely and
consistently. Educators must follow procedures related to supervision, health and safety,
allergies, medication, food, toileting, sleep, emergencies, illness and child protection.
Following these procedures is especially important when a child is new because educators may
still be learning about the child’s individual needs. Information about the child and family should
also be kept confidential and handled appropriately.
Conclusion
Starting childcare is an important transition in a child’s life. It may involve excitement,
uncertainty, separation difficulties and changes in behaviour or routine. With patience,
consistency, positive relationships and good communication between educators and families, the
child can gradually become comfortable and confident in their new environment.
The main goal is to ensure that the child feels safe, respected, included and supported while
developing relationships, independence and confidence in the childcare setting.
