Gradual entry for little ones at a daycare


Gradual entry is an essential step for the little friends who just start their new adventures at a daycare. Therefore, making the process as smooth as possible is the key to help them to accommodate the new environment faster and then settle down. 


So, how can we, as teachers, make it successful? Here are some tips.


Create a friendly and  welcoming classroom

I do believe the physical environment has a great influence on little children. In our classroom, there are shelves with toys as “stations” as well as table time activities. I usually like to direct the little friends to the shelves first so they can see their play options. Then, they can move to the carpet to play where they feel more comfortable or relaxed. 


Acknowledge their anxiety and comfort them with gentle and calm voice 

It is very common to see little friends crying for their parents at drop-off. In those moments,  I have the child sitting on my lap, telling them I understand they are upset and reassure them mom or dad will be back after lunch, naps or snacks, depending on their schedule. I also offer them the choices of either sitting with me or going to play. At this moment, the best way to calm the child down is to repeat and reassure them by saying “it is okay”, “we will be alright” or “mom will be back.” 


Introduce the routines 

Young children surely benefit from daily routines, especially for preschoolers. They haven’t developed the concept about time but understand the sequences and predictability. It might seem to be chaotic at the beginning. However, once they learn their daily routine, they feel more secure, which relieves their anxiety as well as a sense of stability. 


Some personal options to share

Should a parent pass the child to a teacher? Or let the parent stay in the classroom?

I usually generally ask parents’ permission, especially moms, to pass the child to me or a teacher and assure them we will keep them updated by the media we use for communications. I do believe this gesture also shows the parents trust the teacher, which sends the message to the child that it is safe to be with the teacher, to ease their worries. 


I do not suggest parents staying in the classroom. The lingering can prolong the separation process, especially if the child is attached. Also, sometimes it might create confusion or anxiety in other children and make them wonder where their parents are. 


Say a positive but short goodbye with a hug, kiss,  “ I love you” and “ I will pick you up after lunch/in the afternoon”

As a mother, I totally understand it is difficult for parents to say goodbye to their little one, especially when they are crying. However, saying goodbye is a good way to reinforce the message that parents will return as well as maintain an “invisible” connection between the parents and the child throughout the day. 


Transitions are never easy for the young children, especially when they start a new environment. However, with support, patience, and consistency, we can help our beloved little ones to get ready for their new chapter at the daycare!

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