If your little one will be starting a new childcare situation soon, it can be tough for you to separate from them. Fortunately, there are ways that you can help your child and yourself get ready for the transition.

The daycare staff at Imagination Childcare Academy, located in Rochester, NY, explains how to prepare you and your kid for childcare.

• Ease Into Childcare: If you are sending your children to daycare, slowly easing them into the new environment can help them adjust. If you're hiring a nanny, have playdates with her and your children to help everyone get acquainted and comfortable with each other. If you are there with your children at first, it will give them more confidence.
• Set A Positive Tone: Try to develop a friendship with your children's teachers or nanny. Seeing that you are comfortable with the childcare situation will help your kid be more at ease. If you are anxious about childcare, your children will pick up on it and they will also feel unsure.
• Don’t Disappear: It may seem easier on you and your child if you sneak away instead of saying goodbye, but this can make the situation more difficult. When your children notice that you’re gone, they might develop separation anxiety and be afraid you won’t return. Make sure to give them a quick goodbye without lingering.
• Have A Comfort Object: If the daycare allows it, give your child a comfort item to help them if they have separation anxiety. It can be something to reassure them that you will be back as soon as you can to get them. It can also help you to have a photo of your child to put on your desk at work.

The staff at Imagination Childcare Academy is happy to help you and your little one with the transition to childcare. Give them a call at (585) 413-3948 or visit their website to learn more about their programs.