How Can I Help My Child Settle Into Childcare?
Starting a new journey at an early learning centre is a monumental milestone for both you and your little one. It is a season of growth, but we recognise that the transition can often feel overwhelming. At Endeavour Early Education, we believe that a well-rounded start begins with a sense of security. By establishing a consistent “drop-off” ritual and allowing our educators to co-regulate with your child, you can transform a tearful goodbye into a confident beginning.
What is the best way to help a child settle into childcare?
The most effective way to help a child settle into childcare is to establish a short, consistent “goodbye ritual” and lean on educators for co-regulation. By remaining calm and positive during the drop-off, parents signal to their child that the environment is safe, allowing the child to build trust with their new caregivers more quickly.
Why is the “Drop-Off” ritual so important for new families?
The transition from home to a centre is more than just a change of scenery, it is a shift in emotional safety zones. For a young child, the “drop-off” is the moment they must navigate the world without their primary attachment figure.
A “ritual” serves as a psychological bridge. When a child knows exactly what to expect, perhaps a hug, a wave at the window, and a specific phrase like “I’ll be back after afternoon tea” their nervous system begins to settle. This predictability is a cornerstone of our holistic approach to early childhood development. It reduces the “unknown” and replaces it with a familiar sequence of events.
How do educators co-regulate to build a sense of safety?
You may have heard the term “co-regulation” used in our centres. But what does it actually mean for your child? In the early years, children have not yet developed the ability to manage big emotions on their own. They rely on the calm, steady presence of an adult to “level out” their nervous system.
When you arrive at our centre, our educators don’t just take your child and walk away. They intentionally match the child’s energy with a soothing tone and physical presence. By staying calm while a child is distressed, the educator “borrows” their own regulated state to the child. This process is essential for building a healthy emotional foundation, ensuring your child feels seen and understood before they engage with our School Readiness Programme.
Five Secrets to a Smooth Start at Endeavour Early Education
1. Master the “Short and Sweet” Goodbye
It is tempting to linger when your child is crying, but prolonged goodbyes can inadvertently increase a child’s anxiety. It suggests to the child that there might be a reason for you to be hesitant. We encourage parents to be “lovingly firm.” Give a big squeeze, say your ritual phrase, and hand them over to their educator. Trust that our team is trained in co-regulation to support them the moment you leave.
2. Customise Your Transition Schedule
Every child is unique. Some children thrive by starting with a few half-days, while others find it easier to jump straight into a full routine. Before your first official day at one of our centres, we recommend several orientation visits. This allows the child to explore the STEM stations or the outdoor play areas while you are still nearby, associating the centre with fun and safety.
3. Harness the Power of Familiarity
Bringing a “transitional object” like a favourite teddy or a family photo, can provide immense comfort. These items act as a tether to home. We integrate these comforts into our holistic care, ensuring that your child’s cultural and emotional background is always respected within our learning environments.
4. Engage with the Learning Programme Early
When children are excited about what they are doing, anxiety takes a backseat. Talk to your child about the exciting activities they will experience, such as Music Therapy or the Ready Steady Go Kids sports sessions. By framing the centre as a place of opportunity and “big kid” learning, you help them feel school-ready from day one.
5. Prioritise Morning Nutrition and Rest
A tired or hungry child will find it much harder to regulate their emotions. Ensure your child has a healthy breakfast and a restful night’s sleep. Once they arrive at our Concord or Kariong centres, our Paddock to Plate programme takes over, providing nutrient-dense meals that support brain function and mood stability throughout the day.
| Phase | Typical Behaviours | Educator Support Strategy at Endeavour |
| First Week | Clinging, crying at drop-off, fatigue. | Intensive co-regulation, 1-on-1 bonding. |
| Week Three | Hesitation, but easily distracted by toys. | Introduction to THRASS/Jolly Phonics. |
| Settled | Running to friends, waving goodbye easily. | Encouraging independence and leadership. |
| Thriving | Sharing stories of their day at home. | Advanced participation in STEM and arts. |
How does our centre support Settling into childcare?
If you are looking to settle into childcare services, you will find that our team prioritises the “Primary Educator” model. This means your child is assigned a specific educator who becomes their “secure base.” This relationship is the key to overcoming separation anxiety. By having a consistent person to greet them at the door, the child learns that even when Mum or Dad leaves, another trusted adult is there to keep them safe.
