Starting childcare can be a difficult transition for any child, but it can be especially challenging for children with anxiety. As a parent, it’s important to take steps to help your child feel more comfortable and secure in this new environment. Here are some tips to help prepare your child with anxiety for childcare:
Introduce the idea of childcare early:
Start talking to your child about childcare well before it’s time for them to start. Use positive language and make it clear that this is a fun and exciting opportunity for them to make new friends and learn new things.
Visit the childcare beforehand:
Take your child to visit the childcare centre before their first day. This will give them a chance to explore the space and become familiar with the teachers and other children.
Create a routine:
Having a consistent routine in place can help children with anxiety feel more secure. Try to establish a morning routine that includes time for breakfast, getting dressed, and packing their backpack. This will help them feel more prepared and in control.
Provide comfort items:
Allow your child to bring a comfort item to childcare with them, such as a stuffed animal or a favourite blanket. This can provide a sense of security and familiarity in an unfamiliar environment.
Communicate with the childcare staff:
Make sure to let the childcare staff know that your child has anxiety and share any strategies that have worked well in the past. This will help them understand how best to support your child.
Be positive and enc
ouraging: Let your child know that you believe in them and that you know they can do this. Give them positive reinforcement for small accomplishments and remind them that it’s okay to feel nervous or scared.
Starting childcare can be a big change for any child, but by taking the time to prepare your child with anxiety and working closely with the childcare staff, you can help make the transition a little easier.
carers are saying
My children have been attending Ignite since the centre was opened. The educators and management have been very caring and involved in their job. The owner and the director are amazing and attend very promptly my all requests. The educators are very lovely and caring. I strongly recommend this childcare.
I would highly recommend families to enrol their children in this beautiful service. Ignite Early Learning Centre has a very warm and inviting environment for all families and children; the learning rooms are all filled with great resources and programs designed for the children’s developmental needs. I have been in the centre because I have friends who work there and I am very impressed with the pleasing and friendly educators working with the children and the management who are kind, down to earth and willing to help families at all times. It is also amazing to see the children’s daily activities and experiences which will help them grow as confident, responsible and caring children.
We have been going for almost a year now. Much much better than other centres such as the ones next door at bardia. Attitude to customer service, parents requests and concerns are the standouts. Staff are well trained and professional. Thry don’t whinge and have an attitude like many centres. Recommended by a parents who goes there as well. We recommend as well. Centre itself looks great, safe and tidy. The owner is the key. She is active in managing the centre.
