Five Secrets About Starting Childcare
There are some things nobody tells you about starting childcare. I would rather tell you the ‘secrets’ so that you can mentally and emotionally prepare, rather than being blindsided by them. Take a deep breath, buckle up and get ready for some courageous parenting.
1. Your child will get sick.
Experts tell us that mild illnesses are part of growing up – there’s not a lot you can do to help your child avoid them. Young children get a lot of colds because they haven’t had a chance to build up immunity to the many viruses that cause colds. Childcare is a good chance to gain exposure to minor, common viruses. As your child gets older, they’ll gradually build up immunity and get fewer colds. Research tells us that childcare children are virtually indestructible by the time they reach Primary School.
2. Your child will get hurt.
Most children get cuts and abrasions. Young children often get them when they’re learning to walk and climb and they fall over or bump into things. A healthy and stimulating early childhood environment will include elements of risk, where children can test their physical abilities whilst building their skills and confidence. Playing with other children in a social environment results in the odd scrape, bump or bite, but also rich opportunities to strengthen communication and conflict resolution skills.
3. Your separation anxiety may be worse than theirs.
Children are usually fine once you leave. Be strong and make the farewell short and sweet. If a little one is unsettled for a while, we will always give parents a courtesy call. The greater challenge is the raw, helpless feeling of your heart shattering into a thousand pieces as you walk away. Keep walking. We wait at reception with tissues, empathy and reassurance. Try and keep busy throughout the day for your own sake. Feel free to call and check in as often as needed. What’s waiting on the other side of the day is the sweetest reunion and journey home to everything familiar. HERE are some further tips and tricks from our friends at the Raising Children Network.
4. A quality childcare experience is priceless.
Studies show that time spent in a quality early learning and care environment supports child development. This means that while we are getting curious, investigating, exploring and socialising, we are brain architects. Stimulating environments support neural connections. Besides, where else do you have a dozen little brothers and sisters running around? A social environment like this offers endless opportunities to learn how to get along in a group.
5. Good Educators will love your child as much as you do.
Be prepared for the fact that we may fall in love with your child. We count it a privilege to live our day together while you attend to work responsibilities. As we laugh, play, sing and go about our daily routines, we often see the very best side of children. Rest assured that they are in good hands.
My secrets are out. Do you have any more to add? What do you wish you had known before starting childcare?