How to Help an Infant Adjust to Daycare

Starting your infant in daycare can be a tough situation for both parent and child. Some children adjust quickly to daycare, while others may experience some separation anxiety. Parents can take several steps to ensure that their child is comfortable before leaving him in daycare. Similar steps can be taken to show the infant that his parents will return within a few hours to take him home.

• 1

  Visit the daycare with your infant before he begins care in the facility. This will give him a chance to become familiar with the environment and the caregivers while his parents are close by for comfort. Show him the toys and, if possible, introduce him to the other infants.

• 2

  Visit a public play group, such as a "Mommy and Me" play date. This will allow your infant to interact with other children, making the switch to daycare an easier transition.

• 3

  Take your infant to visit family and friends frequently before beginning daycare. This will give him a chance to get used to being held and cared for by people other than his parents.

• 4

  Give your child a familiar item to take with him to daycare. Having something from home can provide him with comfort while he is getting used to being in an unfamiliar place.