Starting at a new daycare is an exciting step but it can also bring big emotions for both children and parents. At Centerville Child Development Center, we know that every child adjusts differently depending on their age, personality, and past experiences.
To help make the transition smoother, here are age-specific tips plus trusted resources so you can feel confident supporting your child through this change.
Infants (6 Weeks – 12 Months)
What to Expect:
Infants adjust best when their routines stay as consistent as possible. While they may not fully understand the change, they can sense new surroundings and caregivers. Don’t be concerned if you see big changes in your infant during this adjustment period as many time infants will choose to change their sleeping or eating habits for a short time.
Tips to Ease the Transition:
- Provide teachers with your baby’s feeding and nap schedule so it mirrors home as closely as possible.
- Bring a familiar blanket, swaddle, or soft toy that smells like home. Keep in mind the daycare must practice Safe Sleep.
- Spend a few minutes in the classroom at drop-off so your baby can see you interacting positively with their caregiver.
Learn More:
Toddlers (1 – 3 Years)
What to Expect:
Toddlers thrive on routine and familiarity, so a new daycare can feel overwhelming at first. Separation anxiety is common during this stage.
Tips to Ease the Transition:
- Practice short separations at home so your toddler gets used to you leaving and returning.
- Create a consistent drop-off routine—such as a hug, a special goodbye phrase, and then handing them to the teacher.
- Talk about daycare in a positive way: “You get to play with new friends and toys today!”
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Preschoolers (3 – 4 Years)
What to Expect:
Preschoolers are beginning to understand the concept of time and may ask more detailed questions about their new school. They might be excited one moment and nervous the next.
Tips to Ease the Transition:
- Read books about starting school, such as The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson or Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney.
- Let your child help pack their backpack or choose their snack to build excitement.
- Arrange a playdate with a classmate before their first day if possible.
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Kindergarteners (5 – 6 Years)
What to Expect:
Kindergarten-aged children may be moving from daycare to elementary school or transitioning between programs within a center. They may have more questions about schedules, friends, and learning.
Tips to Ease the Transition:
- Talk through what their day will look like so they know what to expect.
- Encourage them to share any worries and problem-solve together.
- Focus on the fun aspects—new friends, exciting projects, and learning new skills.
Learn More:
A Note from Centerville Child Development Center
Transitions are part of growing up and with the right support, children become more resilient, confident, and adaptable. Our teachers at Centerville Child Development Center work closely with parents to make every child’s start here as smooth and joyful as possible.
We invite you to schedule a tour so we can meet your family, learn about your child’s unique needs, and show you how we create a caring, supportive environment for every age group.