Young children often struggle with getting used to new people and situations, but sometimes there’s no way around it. Accepting a new job or moving to a new area, for example, can necessitate switching to a different day care provider or preschool. The change can be stressful, but there are many ways you can help your child transition and embrace their new learning environment.

5 Tips for Getting Your Child Used to a New Day Care Provider

1. Describe Your Child’s Routine to the New Day Care

If your child is accustomed to a certain way of doing things, this could be important information for your new day care provider. For example, you could write down their usual nap time, meal time, favorite toys, games, books, or activities. Doing so can provide more consistency in your child’s life, as they transition.

2. Give Your Child a Keepsake From Their Old Day Care

Trinkets, photographs, or toys from your child’s old school or day care center can help them remember the old times fondly. Such keepsakes can also comfort them as they get used to change and learn how to cope with new situations.

3. Visit the New Child Care Center Beforehand

To make the change less of a shock, tour the new child care center with your child while they’re still regularly attending the old one. Aim to visit it more than once, if possible. Introduce your child to the new staff and let your child get used to the new space.

4. Say Goodbye

Ask your child’s old teacher or care provider about having a party on your child’s last day. A small celebration with snacks, games, and music can help your child say goodbye to old friends and appreciate the time they spent together.

5. Stay With Your Child at the New Center

During the first week, you may want to stay at the new day care center with your child, at least for an hour at a time. This can help your child feel more secure in their new environment.

If you’re looking for a day care center in the Eastland Parkway area of Lexington, KY, Big Blue Bird Early Childhood Center has been serving the neighborhood for over 40 years with infant care, preschool, and other child development programs. They’ve earned three stars from the STARS for KIDS NOW program for their great work, so you can count on them to help your child grow. Call (859) 299-9277 to schedule a tour, or go online to learn more about their available programs.