Starting Your Baby in Daycare - That First Week

I remember that day as if it was yesterday. And it wasn't. It was almost 5 years ago. It was our son's first day at daycare. I was almost to the end of my maternity leave so we were going to start him on half days at the daycare, just to get him used to it. I'm not sure if it was more for his benefit, or mine, but our thought was that easing into full days would make the process easier.

Those first couple days are bound to be hard, both on the parents and the baby. You're all getting used to a new routine, and that takes time. Give everybody a chance to adjust and realize that there are going to be some bumps.

Keep your goodbyes short and sweet. I love a lingering kiss on a baby's cheek as much as the next person, but drawn out goodbyes are harder on you both. It's similar to ripping off a bandaid; it hurts more if you do it fast, but the recovery is quicker. By the time you are getting back in your car, your baby is probably snuggled in the provider's arms or exploring a new toy.

Ask your provider if they mind if you call during the day. It will help you fell connected to hear that your baby is doing great, or that he had peas and crackers for lunch. As you get more comfortable, you'll probable feel the need to call less.

And realize that you are going to miss your baby and your baby is going to miss you. That's natural, and that's part of the love you share.

It took me about 2 weeks to really adjust to having our son at childcare.

But that first day was hard. As soon as the door closed, I cried. I sobbed. I bawled. And that's ok too.