6 Things You Can Do To Help Prepare Your Child For Their First Day At Daycare
Starting daycare is a big milestone for both children and parents. Whether it’s your first child or your fourth, the first day can come with a mix of emotions like excitement, nervousness, and perhaps a few tears (from both sides)! At Green Leaves Early Learning, we understand how important this transition is, and we’re here to help make it a smooth and positive experience for your family. Bri Ladlay, a Green Leaves Richlands parent, shared their positive experience with us on Google:
As a first-time mum, I was naturally anxious about leaving my son in someone else’s care, but from the very first day at Green Leaves Richlands, all of those worries were put to rest. The team has been nothing short of amazing, warm, nurturing, and genuinely invested in every child’s happiness and development. My son absolutely loves it here! He comes home smiling and it’s clear he feels safe, happy, and stimulated. The learning experiences are thoughtfully planned, and the environment is always clean, calm, and welcoming. I also have to give huge credit to the incredible management team. Their communication is consistent, open, and reassuring. They’ve created a culture of trust and support that made such a big difference during those early, nervous weeks. It’s clear they take great pride in running a centre that truly puts children and families first. I am so grateful to have my son at this centre. It’s been a wonderful experience, and I’d wholeheartedly recommend it to any parent, especially fellow first-timers!
So, to help make the transition as smooth and positive as possible, we’ve put together six simple tips for preparing your child for their first big day. These tried-and-true suggestions are designed to build confidence, ease any nerves, and set your family up for a happy start to daycare life.
1. Talk about what to expect
Start having gentle conversations about childcare a few weeks before the big day. Use simple language to explain where they’ll be going, who they’ll meet (like their Educators and new friends), and what they’ll do, like playing, learning, resting, and eating.
Reading books about starting childcare or role-playing the experience with toys can also help them become familiar with the idea.
2. Visit the Centre together
Before your child’s first official day, visit your local Green Leaves Centre with them. Many of our families find that coming along for a stay-and-play session helps ease nerves and builds trust with the environment and the Educators.
Let your child explore the rooms, play areas, and even the Parents Lounge, where you can enjoy a coffee together before saying goodbye.
3. Build a morning routine
Creating a consistent morning routine can give your child a sense of security. Try practising your daycare morning routine a few times before the first day: waking up, getting dressed, packing the bag, and heading out the door at the same time each morning.
This routine sets the tone for the day and helps your child feel more in control.
4. Pack familiar comforts
A familiar item from home, such as a soft toy, blanket, or even a family photo, can offer reassurance during the day. Label everything clearly, and pack a change of clothes, just in case.
If your child is still settling into toilet training or has specific food or sleep needs, let our Educators know because our team is here to support your child’s individual routine.
5. Keep goodbyes short and sweet
It’s natural to want to linger at drop-off, especially if your child is a bit teary. But long goodbyes can sometimes make things harder. Instead, try a cheerful, confident goodbye and let your child know when you’ll be back: ‘I’ll see you after storytime this afternoon!’
Trust that our caring Educators will comfort and engage your child—and you’re always welcome to call the centre later for an update.
6. Look after yourself too
Don’t forget—you’re part of this transition too. That’s why we created the Green Leaves Parents Lounge, a calming space where you can take a moment to recharge after drop-off. Grab a barista-made coffee and a freshly baked treat, check your emails, or simply catch your breath before heading to work.
Many parents tell us this small pause in the morning helps ease their own nerves, especially in those first few weeks.
Remember: every child settles at their own pace
Starting daycare is the beginning of a beautiful journey of learning, independence, and friendship. With a bit of preparation (and plenty of love), your child’s first day can be a wonderful start to this new chapter. And our Green Leaves team will be working closely with you to support your child every step of the way.
Would you like to experience the Green Leaves Difference for yourself? Pop into your nearest Green Leaves Early Learning centre for a personalised tour—and while you’re here, enjoy a barista-made coffee and a treat in our Parents Lounge. It’s the perfect way to get a feel for our space, meet our friendly team, and see how we make every child’s first day a special one.
