Baby Starting Daycare? Seven Tips for a Smooth Transition

1. Get her used to a bottle before starting daycare

If you are breastfeeding, you will want to get your baby used to drinking from a bottle before starting daycare.

2. Ease into the first few days/week 

It’s helpful to ease the baby into a full day of daycare.  I recommend at least one half-day before a full day or better a week-long transition, starting with one hour the first day, then two hours the second, and so on.

3. Don’t hesitate to check-in

If you are sitting at work worrying about how your baby is adjusting at daycare, don’t be afraid to message them in the app, if it gives you peace of mind! Don’t worry about bugging the daycare staff – they are used to new-mom worry and are very understanding and helpful.

4. Bring familiar things for the baby

Don’t forget to bring familiar items that will give your baby comfort while adjusting to a new place. For example, a favorite sleep sack, pacifier, etc.

6. Prepare for lots of colds

The first year of daycare will be full of snotty noses and occasional calls that your baby is running a fever and needs to be picked up (especially during the winter). You might even experience a case of pink eye and a tummy bug or two. (Spoiler alert – you will likely be getting sick a lot too!) This is normal, as your baby is building up his immune system.

7. Remember that it’s probably harder on you and that it gets easier

Hang in there, mama! The transition to daycare is tough, but every day will get a little easier, and you will find your groove in no time. children in daycare build and practice cognitive, physical, social, and emotional skills under the guidance of highly skilled early childhood educators.

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