Parent guide
Getting ready for the first day of child care
Simple ways to help your child, and yourself, through the first days at a new child care centre.
By Autumn Child Care · Published
General guide. Every child adjusts at their own pace, and there is no single right way to start. These are ideas many families find helpful; your child’s educators will tell you how the first days work in their room.
In the weeks before
- Talk about the centre in a calm, simple way: where it is, that there are toys and other children, and that you will come back.
- If you can, visit together, or look at the rooms on video, so the place feels familiar.
- Move your morning routine a little earlier so the first day isn’t a rush.
Share what you know
You know your child best. Tell the educators about routines, sleep, food, the words your child uses for things, and what comforts them when they are upset. Mention allergies and health needs before the first day, so there is time to plan.
Pack the night before
Label everything. A spare set of clothes, weather-ready outdoor wear and a familiar comfort item can all help. Autumn’s first-day list covers what to bring and what to ask about first, and you can print it.
Saying goodbye
- Keep goodbyes short, warm and the same each day.
- Always say goodbye rather than slipping out: it helps your child trust that you will come back.
- It is normal for a child to cry at drop-off and settle soon after. Ask the educators how your child did.
The first weeks
Tiredness, clinginess or big feelings at home are common while a child adjusts. Keep evenings simple, and talk to the educators early about anything that worries you.
At Autumn
Autumn aims to make the move into care as gentle and positive as possible. You get daily updates, photos and messages with your child’s teachers in the Brightwheel parent app. If your child needs extra support, talk to Autumn before your child starts. The parent FAQ has more on settling in.