While the decision to enrol your tamariki in early learning is an exciting milestone, it can also be extremely nerve racking
for parents and carers. Starting daycare is a significant adjustment for the whole whānau, and it’s important we recognise
that and come up with ways to ensure the transition is a smooth and positive experience. Early preparation is key, so here
are some of our top tips to help ease the transition and promote a healthy and happy start for your little ones.
- Start slowly
Start by introducing tamariki to the concept of daycare gradually. Arrange short visits and really take the time to allow
your tamariki to explore the environment and interact with the centre’s kaiako. This helps familiarise each tamaiti with
the new setting and builds a sense of comfort and trust.
- Establish a routine
Most tamariki thrive on routine, as it provides a sense of security and predictability. Start implementing a consistent daily
routine at home, including set mealtimes, nap times, and playtime. This will make the transition to daycare smoother, as
they are already accustomed to a structured schedule. Share your routine with your centre’s kaiako so they can plan how
they’ll best support your tamariki and replicate where they can, what you do at home.
- Encourage independence
Foster independence by encouraging pre-school tamariki to do simple tasks on their own, such as dressing themselves, picking
out their toys, or setting the table for mealtimes. This builds confidence and introduces them to building a strong sense of self
and self-care.
- Get social!
Arrange playdates or attend community events where tamariki can interact. This helps tamariki to develop their social skills.
Learning how to share and collaborate are essential parts of the early learning experience.
- Talk it through
Maintain open and honest communication with your tamariki about the upcoming change. Use positive language to discuss
the benefits of going to daycare, such as making new friends and engaging in fun activities – there will be lots of opportunities
to play and learn new things! It’s super important to address any concerns they may have and validate their feelings. We know
each tamaiti is different. Some may benefit from you creating a visual chart that outlines what will happen in their day, from
start to finish, giving you an opportunity to show when you will come back to get them. Other tamariki benefit from roleplaying,
storytelling or making up a song about going to daycare – whatever works best for your tamariki.
- Create a comfort object
Provide your tamariki with a comfort object, such as a favourite toy or blanket, that they can bring to daycare. Having a familiar
item from home can provide a sense of security.
- Build a relationship with your kaiako
Establish a connection with the teachers. Share important information about your tamariki, including their routines, preferences,
and any specific needs. Building a partnership and collaborating with us, helps ensure we adapt our approaches to best support
your tamariki, so they feel safe and secure.
- Practice positive goodbyes
Practice positive goodbyes at home, reinforcing the idea that you will always come back. Keep farewells short and sweet and
avoid lingering. This helps your tamariki understand that separation is temporary and builds trust in the consistency of your return.
- Keep up with updates and korero with your kaiako
Stay informed about what activities are happening at your daycare facility and the progress your tamariki are making.
We encourage regular communication with our kaiako as it provides insights into the experiences of your tamaiti, allowing you to
address any concerns promptly and stay actively involved in their early development. At Little Parrots, we have a dedicated
whānau portal and app that helps you keep in touch with us and makes life easier for parents. It’s a secure online area
where you can login to access information about your tamariki and see how things are going in real time.
Preparing your child for joining an early learning centre like ours is a gradual process that requires patience, understanding,
and planning. By implementing these tips, you will create a positive foundation for your tamariki to start their early learning journey.
We know parenting is hard. If you are struggling with preparing your child to join an early learning centre, or at any stage during
the transition, then please reach out. We’re part of your community and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
