Getting Ready for Daycare

Starting daycare is a big change for children—and parents, too. A new space, new routines, and time away from family can bring excitement, uncertainty, and sometimes tears.

A little preparation can help make the unfamiliar feel more comfortable.

Talk About What to Expect

Explain daycare in simple, positive terms: “You’ll play, eat, spend time outside, and rest at Little Land with Silvia. I’ll come back to pick you up.”

If possible, visit together before the first day. Meeting their caregiver and exploring the space can give your child something familiar to return to. Short separations with a trusted adult can also help them practise being apart.

Create a Goodbye Routine

Try a hug, a kiss, and the same reassuring words each morning. Explain when you will return using something your child understands, such as “grownups come back". Listening to "Grownups Come Back" by Daniel Tiger's Neighbourhood can be helpful. Find it on Youtube, or anywhere you stream music.

Always say goodbye rather than slipping away. Keep it warm and brief, then allow their caregiver to offer comfort and help them settle. A consistent routine helps children know what to expect.

Make Room for Feelings

Your child does not have to feel excited right away. You can acknowledge their feelings while offering reassurance: “You wish we could stay together. I love you, and I’ll come back.”

Some children settle quickly; others need more time. Patience, familiar routines, and a compassionate response can support the adjustment.

Share your child’s interests, routines, and favourite ways to be comforted with Silvia. These little details help build a connection.

What to Bring to Little Land

Before your child starts, please prepare:

• A pillow, blanket, and a stuffy if they sleep with one.

• A full change of clothes, including undergarments and socks.

• Weather-appropriate outdoor shoes and outerwear, such as a rainsuit, snowsuit, hat, mittens, and neck warmer.

• A spill-proof water bottle.

• Diapers, wipes, and cream if your child is not yet toilet independent.

Please label everything—it helps keep belongings organized.

If you would like to purchase Mabel’s Labels, visit campaigns.mabelslabels.com and search for Little Land Daycare. Purchases through the fundraiser contribute to our art supplies fund.

Our Favourite Books to Read Together

A Kissing Hand for Chester Raccoon — Audrey Penn
This short board book shares Mama Raccoon’s comforting idea: a kiss in Chester’s palm reminds him of her love while they are apart. Try your own “kissing hand” as part of your goodbye routine.

Llama Llama Misses Mama — Anna Dewdney
Llama feels unsure on his first day of preschool and misses his mama. As he discovers activities and friends, he learns that he can enjoy his day—and Mama will return.

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