How to support baby in their transition to daycare
Entrusting your baby to daycare is a big step that fills us with a multitude of emotions. The joy of seeing them open up to new experiences rubs shoulders with the anxiety of letting them go. It's a pivotal moment that marks a turning point in your life as parents and a key moment in the baby-daycare transition .
From cocoon to flight: the delicate balance between attachment and autonomy
Mother-child attachment is a complex process that begins in utero and develops through early interactions between mother and baby. Maternal care, breastfeeding, and physical closeness promote the release of hormones (such as oxytocin) that strengthen this bond. This secure attachment allows the child to feel confident in exploring the world around them.
The Big Leap: Between Joy and Apprehension
Leaving your baby for daycare is an emotional time. We wonder if our child will adapt to this new routine, we worry that they won't feel safe or that we'll miss them, we wonder if they'll form new bonds, if the teachers will take their needs into account like they do at home...
Your concerns are completely legitimate, but we're here to reassure you! For your baby, this new adventure is also a very emotional time: even if mom remains their main attachment figure, your baby will create new bonds at the nursery, and they'll be able to feel safe with the other caregivers there for them.
Daycare is a place of awakening and socialization. Thanks to this new environment, your baby will develop their curiosity and learn to interact with other children. It's a place conducive to interaction, a true linguistic and multicultural immersion, and a playground for your baby's senses. They will discover new sensations and emotions.
The Les Mousquetaires nursery offers you some keys to a smooth adaptation for you and your child:
1. Parental trust is key
The relationship you establish with the person who will be looking after your child is essential. Make sure you feel confident and secure. Don't hesitate to follow your feelings and intuition as a mother during your meetings!
Take the time to visit the facility to ensure the environment is suitable for your child and that you feel confident there. A pleasant, bright, and stimulating environment is essential for your child's development!
2. The importance of the familiarization phase
For your baby to feel safe, they need stable reference points. Repeating situations helps them better understand the world and feel confident.
This is why it is crucial to have a familiarization period in the nursery , because it offers your child the opportunity to have repetitive experiences that allow him to become familiar with his new environment.
According to Boris Cyrulnik, author of "Where It All Begins: The First 1000 Days," the sense of security provided by parental presence is the driving force behind baby's exploration. By feeling comfortable and confident with your caregivers, your child will be more inclined to explore their new environment.
3. Create smooth and safe transitions
Morning separations can be emotional for your child. It's important to take the time to reassure and cuddle them to ease this transition and ensure you part with peace of mind.
It is important for the educator to consider the child's emotional needs and provide appropriate support. Separation anxiety, crying, or anger should not be minimized!
If the idea of separation worries you, allow time for a longer adjustment period. This will allow you to be available to your child and reassure them (or yourself) during this transition.
4. Emotional support
To make this transition easier, don't hesitate to ask for help when dropping off your little one; surrounded by people you trust, they will be able to provide you with support and help you feel more relaxed.
Your positive attitude during the separation will have a direct impact on your child's well-being. By leaving them in a reassuring environment and showing confidence, you are giving them the keys to a successful adjustment to daycare .
5. Your happiness is contagious
Give yourself a well-deserved break! Taking care of yourself also means taking care of your child. By recharging your batteries, you'll be a more relaxed and attentive mother.
Don't feel guilty! You've been wonderful with your baby, but don't forget to cherish yourself. Your well-being is the key to peaceful and fulfilling parenthood.
Rest assured! For your child, time passes differently. They're so absorbed in games and discoveries that they don't even notice the hours passing. Take advantage of this time to recharge your batteries; they're in good hands!
As a family daycare, Les Mousquetaires is committed to building a relationship of trust with you. We understand that entrusting your child to our care is a major step. That's why we offer personalized support from the moment you register. A booklet will help you better understand the familiarization phase, and discussions with the designated educator will allow you to share your child's habits and needs with us. Our shared goal? To make your child feel at home, to create a familiar environment where they will feel safe and fulfilled, while allowing you to leave with peace of mind.