Returning to Work? How to Ease This Transition for Your Family

Returning to work after having a child is a big milestone for the parents and child. We know how emotional this process can be, especially if you are going through it for the first time. At Tiny Timbers we are here to support you every step of the way and make this transition as comfortable as possible for your family.

When should I start looking for daycare?

Every centre is different but we would reccomend reaching out about a year before you would like your child to start daycare and get added to the waitlist. At Tiny Timbers we open a limited number of spots in each program for pre-registration in January of the same year, so this is a great time to reach out and follow up. We would reccomend checking in at both 6 months and 3 months from when you need childcare, letting centres know you are still interested and actively looking is helpful! We often have a much better idea of availability within 3 months of your start date.

I want as much time with my child as possible, is it doable to start them at daycare the same month I return to work?

This is very common, most parents want to soak up every last second of their parental leave, which we understand. However this will usually make the transition back to work harder for yourself and your child. On average it takes a full time child about a month to fully adapt to daycare, the daily schedules and routines, and to develop a strong bond with their teachers. After about the first two weeks we notice that drop offs typically get easier, less tears all around! Therefore we reccomend starting your child a month before your return to work so your family gets used to daycare before adding in another transition of working! This also makes it easier to accomodate the reccomended gradual entry schedule for the first week (or more if you are part time) Gradual entry helps to ease your child into their new environment and routine, and become familiar with their teachers. This time is also used for parents and teachers to communicate any information. Our recommended schedule is as follows:

Day 1 and 2: Approx. 2 hours

Day 3 and 4:  Approx. 4 hours

Day 5 and 6: Full Day

Feeling anxious about your child starting daycare?

Please let us know! We are always happy to provide message or picture updates to put your mind at ease. Some children adapt to daycare quickly and easily and others need more support, we have experienced all types of transitions and are here to make your family feel as supported as possible

Tips to Make the Transition Easier

Here are a few ways to help your child (and yourself) adjust smoothly:

1. Talk about it positively
Speaking calmly and confidently about daycare helps them feel safe and excited.

2. Practice the routine
Start adjusting your child to a schedule similar to the daily routine at daycare about a month before starting. Keeping their schedule consistent will help them know what to expect and feel more comfortable at daycare during this period of change

3. Keep goodbyes short and reassuring
We know how difficult it is to say goodbye both for parents and children. We reccomend coming in for about 10 minutes on your child’s first day to ease them into the environment and get to know the teachers. Afterwards we reccomend a quick drop off as this helps children learn that parents can’t stay at daycare and allows the teachers a chance to comfort and bond with them. You are always welcome to check in with us shortly after dropping off your child to ensure they have settled.

4. Give it time
Usually children start to have easier drop offs by the start of their third week. After about a month we usually see that children have become comfortable and familiar with the routines, schedules, activities and teachers. Remember that children are resilient and adapatable. The teachers are there to provide your child with safe, loving and supportive care. Many of our staff are parents and we have been where you are and understand how hard it can be, let us know if there is anything we can do to put your mind at ease.