Drop off tips for families

Dropping off your child in care can be a difficult time for both child and parents. For newly enrolled families joining our Sage family, the first stage of your child settling into care is a big step. It is natural for both child and parent to need some time to adjust to a new routine, new faces and a new environment.

Please know that the thoughts and feelings you have are okay and we are here to support you all the way.

Here are some drop off tips we would like to share:

1. Prepare your child. 

If your child is old enough, talk to them about what to expect at Sage. Encourage their excitement for the activities they will experience throughout the day. Be prepared with their bags and any belongings they need to bring to Sage. For younger children, comfort items from home may be helpful. Try to develop a smooth un-rushed morning routine leading up to drop off to ensure they are relaxed and happy ready for the day.

2. Communication.

Take the time to provide as much information as you can to your child’s educators. This will support educators to get to know your child sooner and understand their routines, likes, dislikes, interests, habits, home experiences, etc. The information you provide helps us to create continuity of care from home to childcare to ease their transition.

3. Establish a separation routine or ritual. 

To ensure that your drop-off is as smooth and predictable as possible it’s helpful to develop a separation routine that you follow every day. This can include saying the same comments, letting your child know you will be back in the afternoon, giving them a kiss and cuddle and then waving at them at the window. Over time this routine will support drop offs being predictable which will create a sense of security. Important to remember to always say ‘goodbye’ and not to ‘drop and run’ when they are not looking. Children can become very distressed when a parent disappears without the goodbye.

4. Project positivity and confidence.

Keep in mind that your child will pick up on any feelings you have. If you are upset and anxious, your child will likely mimic this. Stay positive, calm and confident and your child will likely follow your lead. Always remember that you can call us to check in and get updates on how your child is doing.

5. Avoid lingering

Drawing out a separation when a child is upset can aggravate things. Try to keep the drop off short. As hard as it is, say your goodbyes and then let the educators take over to comfort your child and settle them.  Avoid lingering where your child might see you at the window or hear your voice. Instead, give the Centre a call after some time to get an update on how they are doing.

We hope these tips are useful for our new families as well as our old ones. We are here to support every child transition successfully at Sage.