Dieser Beitrag wurde geschrieben von Nadine Meybauer

A Smooth Transition to Daycare & Kindergarten: How to Lovingly Support Your Child Through the First Few Weeks

Nadine Meybauer

She is a trained children's yoga teacher, children's and youth coach, and certified systemic coach and consultant (St. Gallen).

Starting kindergarten or daycare is just around the corner—a major milestone for the whole family as the child is cared for by someone else for the first time. It is an emotional moment, often accompanied by excitement and pride, but also by worries. For the child, entering the daycare routine marks a new stage in their development; for Mom and Dad, it is often the first step toward letting go—a phase in which many different feelings come into play.

Parents and children need time to adjust to the new situation: for children, a new caregiver, new surroundings, and new sounds. What tips can help? When is the right time to begin the settling-in period? Is my child ready?

A gentle and gradual settling-in period based on a suitable settling-in model is therefore highly recommended. Parents need to trust the professionals and the new environment, while children need to gradually adjust to the new situation. A strong attachment and relationship with the new female educator or male educator is essential to ensure secure care.

How can I prepare my child for this transition?

What matters is that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Every child is different—but these general preparations can help with settling into daycare or nursery:

  • Read and look at books about kindergarten, daycare, or nursery topics together early on

  • Incorporate a Soft Toy into everyday life, which also serves as support in the nursery or daycare

  • Establish regular routines
    (e.g., breakfast, getting dressed, traveling together to the facility)

  • Introduce other caregivers early on so that the child learns that they can also have a good time without their parents and that Mom and Dad always come back

  • Introduce positive affirmations:
    Depending on their age, mindfulness exercises can help strengthen the child mentally, e.g.: I let go of negative thoughts or I look forward to the new day

  • Choosing items together, such as a backpack, lunch box, Soft Toy or Sun Hat, builds excitement for this new chapter of life

How does the settling-in process work at a daycare or kindergarten?

A successful settling-in process begins with a sensitive approach tailored to your child’s individual needs. Step by step—from the first introduction to a confident separation—a stable foundation is created, enabling your child to start their new routine with curiosity and trust.

The introductory meeting

This is where the individual settling-in plan is discussed: Which group, and which female educator or male educator will accompany your child? During which periods will the initial familiarization take place, and when could the first separation be attempted? And: What special circumstances are there in your family? This conversation creates clarity and trust—even for the parents.

The settling-in period

During this phase, the child visits the facility together with a companion to become familiar with the rooms, routines, and people. The visits are gradually increased in duration and intensity, adapted to your child’s reactions and pace. This is where the first relationship with the new female educator or educator is formed—an important foundation for a secure attachment in everyday daycare life.

The first separation attempt

When your child eagerly accepts the first activities and feels safe, the first separation attempt is started in close consultation. Important: The accompanying person says goodbye clearly and lovingly, explaining that they will be back soon. This helps build trust and gently introduces your child to being “alone.” If your child is still unsure, this step is repeated until they feel carefree and safe.

Next steps

Depending on your child’s reaction, it will be decided how quickly the separation periods are extended. Step by step, lunch or nap time can then be integrated—until your child has fully settled into daily life at the nursery or daycare and feels secure and comfortable in the new relationship with their female educator or male educator.

Successful completion

The settling-in period is considered complete when your child starts the day at the facility without fear or tears, has developed a stable bond, feels secure, and the parents can go home with peace of mind. The relationship with the educational staff is now a particularly important element in your child’s well-being.

What else can support the settling-in process?

Peace & stress-free time:

Plan as little else as possible during these weeks so you have enough space to focus fully on settling in and your child.

Do not introduce any further milestones:

Weaning off pacifiers, changing sleep routines, or potty training should be postponed

Consciously shape farewells:

A clear, brief separation and a familiar Soft Toy help your child let go more easily

How long does the adjustment period take?

The duration varies from child to child. Some children are already worry-free after just a few days, while others need several weeks. Give your child the time they need—and plan for it. Stress and time pressure are easily passed on to your child—just like your feelings.

Conclusion: Loving, individual, and patient—this is how to make the transition period relaxed.

Settling into daycare or a nursery is an important step in a child’s development – and for many parents, a small emotional tightrope walk. With a well-coordinated settling-in model, clear rituals, and loving support, the transition is usually tear-free and worry-free. A stable relationship with the new female educator or male educator is the key to helping your child feel safe, build a strong bond, and allowing you to say goodbye at the start of the day with a good feeling.

 
Nadine Meybauer
As a children’s yoga teacher, children’s and youth coach, and certified systemic counsellor from St. Gallen, Nadine loves creating new course content in beautiful natural settings. Her passion is giving children and their companions unforgettable experiences in nature that promote movement and inner balance.

Mehr Informationen über Nadine Meybauer findest du hier.

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