What the first week is really for The first week at daycare is a period of gathering information and building familiarity, not a final judgement on whether a child has settled. Keep drop-offs predictable, share changes each morning and ask about the whole day. Eating, sleep, play and emotions may
The childcare bag rule: confirm, label, replenish What a child should bring depends on what the individual centre supplies. Confirm the current list, label every item and check the bag after each attendance. Common needs can include several clothing changes, weather gear, nappies or wipes where required, bottles or food
The return-to-work childcare timeline Start childcare planning well before your return-to-work date. Confirm availability and the complete session, complete enrolment, arrange orientation, test travel and feeding or sleep logistics, and build a backup plan. Where possible, begin settling before the first workday so the child, parent and centre are not
A reassuring view of separation anxiety Crying or clinging at childcare drop-off can be a normal response to separation and change. A calm, predictable goodbye and a trusted teacher can help the child move through the feeling. Ask what happens after you leave, review patterns across several attendances and seek
A toddler-settling plan parents can repeat Toddlers often settle best with preparation they can understand: short visits, simple language, a predictable arrival, a confident goodbye and trusted adults who acknowledge their feelings. Keep explanations brief, avoid disappearing, and ask what happens after you leave. Progress may be uneven as independence,
A gentle baby-settling approach Helping a baby settle into childcare begins with responsive relationships and detailed information. Share feeding, sleep, health and comfort cues; arrange familiarisation visits; use a clear handover; and review how the baby responds over several attendances. The centre and family should update the plan as the
What orientation visits are for Childcare orientation visits help a child and family meet teachers, explore the environment, learn practical routines and share information before the official start. Visits often begin briefly and may increase in length, but the exact plan should be agreed with the centre. Orientation introduces the
Why a predictable attendance pattern can help Regular childcare attendance gives children repeated opportunities to recognise teachers, understand the sequence of the day, reconnect with play and build relationships. It does not guarantee a tear-free drop-off, but predictable days and calm routines can make the setting more familiar. Childsplay Unlimited
The childcare enrolment path at a glance Childcare enrolment normally moves from enquiry and centre visit to confirming a place, days and session; completing the enrolment form; sharing health, care and authorised-collection information; arranging orientation; and preparing for the first day. Availability is not secured until the centre confirms the
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