59 percent of US children aged five and younger that were not enrolled in kindergarten in 2019 were part of nonparental care arrangements. That makes daycare and preschool a huge part of childhood for many Americans.

Daycare and preschool is highly influential in a child’s early education. They get to learn such skills as how to make friends, how to express emotions, and many more. These skills are essential both for kindergarten entry and later in adulthood.

If you’re contemplating enrolling your child in daycare or preschool around Navarre, there are certain preparations you need to make to ensure that the first day of daycare goes on as smoothly as possible.

In this blog, we give you some easy tips on how to prepare for daycare, so things are easier for both you and your child.

Talk With Your Child About Daycare and Preschool

Generally, children get more comfortable with something the more you talk about it. Depending on how old your child is, try to explain to them what goes on in a daycare or preschool facility. 

You can take a step further and read them interesting children’s books about their likely experience. A book on their first day can help them know what to expect. Introduce them to these books a few months before they start going to daycare or preschool.

You can also try watching fun TV episodes on daycare to help them picture their first day. Remind them how exciting the day was for the child in the book or video when you drop them off.  

Work on Independence

Another essential tip on how to prepare for the first day of daycare or preschool is to start cultivating independence in your child early. This way, they won’t feel helpless when you drop them off at a facility around Navarre. 

You can start by giving your baby some extra time to complete tasks alone at home. Always give them choices so they gain independence. Remind them from time to time that they’re now big and can do certain things themselves, giving a little praise when they accomplish these tasks.  

Meet the Teacher

Take the time to choose a daycare facility you like. With roughly 616,744 daycare institutions spread across the country, you should have no trouble finding a great one near you.

Once you’ve settled on a specific institution for you, give them a call and schedule a visit. Bring your child along to meet the teacher. The goal is to help your child get familiar with their teacher and their surroundings before their first day.

During the visit, your child will be able to see the toys they like, as well as other exciting things. Make reference to these things, so they are excited to go back.   

Use your visit to find out from the teacher all the supplies needed for daycare or preschool so you can get them early enough.

Get Your Child Excited About Their First Day of Daycare and Preschool in Navarre

Starting daycare and preschool is an important milestone, especially for your child. With the right amount of preparation, you can help make their first day a smooth one for both you and your baby.

Would you like to enroll your child in a daycare or preschool around Navarre? Contact us today to get assistance.