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 instructor, child 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 someone else will be caring for the child for the first time. An emotional moment, often accompanied by excitement and pride, but also worries. For the child, starting daycare life marks a new stage in their development; for Mom and Dad, it is often the first time letting go - a phase in which many different emotions 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 start the settling-in period? Is my child ready?

A careful and gentle settling-in period following a suitable settling-in model is therefore highly recommended. Parents need to trust the caregivers and the new environment, and children need to get used to the new situation step by step. A strong bond and relationship with the new female educator or male educator is essential to ensure safe care.

How can I prepare my child for this change?

The important thing is that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Every child is different, but these general preparations can help with the transition to daycare or nursery:

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

  • Integrate a Soft Toy into everyday life, where it can also provide support at nursery or daycare

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

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

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

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

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

A successful transition begins with a sensitive settling-in process tailored to your child’s individual needs. Step by step – from the first meeting to a confident separation – a stable foundation is created, allowing your child to start their new routine with curiosity and confidence.

The introductory conversation

This is where the individual settling-in plan is discussed: Which group, which female educator or male educator will accompany your child? In what time frames will the initial familiarization take place, and when might the first separation occur? And: Are there any special circumstances in your family? This conversation provides clarity and builds trust, including for the parents.

The acclimation period

During this phase, the child visits the center with a caregiver to become familiar with the rooms, routines, and people. The visits gradually increase in length and intensity, tailored to your child’s reactions and pace. This is where the first relationship with the new educator develops, which will later be so important for a secure attachment in everyday daycare life.

The first attempt at separation

When your child begins to accept initial activities with curiosity and feels secure, the first separation attempt is made in close consultation. Important: The accompanying person says a clear, loving goodbye and explains 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 worry-free and secure.

Next steps

Depending on the child’s response, the pace at which the separation periods are increased is determined. Step by step, lunch or nap time can then be introduced, until your child has fully settled into daycare life or preschool life and feels secure and comfortable in their new relationship with their caregiver.

Successful completion

The settling-in period is considered complete when your child starts the day at the daycare center without fear or tears , has formed a secure bond , feels safe, and the parents can go home feeling at ease. The relationship with the educators is now a particularly important foundation for your child’s well-being.

What else can support the adjustment period?

Rest & stress-free time:

Plan to do little else during these weeks so you have enough time to focus fully on settling in and your child

Introduce no further milestones:

It’s best to postpone weaning off the pacifier, sleep transitions, or potty training.

Shape farewells with intention:

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 out and about worry-free after just a few days, while others need several weeks. Give your child the time they need – and make sure to set aside enough time. Stress and time pressure are easily passed on to your child – just like your feelings.

Conclusion: Caring, personalized, and patient – this is how to make the transition period a relaxed one.

Starting daycare or nursery is a significant step in a child’s development – and an emotional tightrope for many parents. With a well-coordinated settling-in model, clear routines, and loving support, the transition is usually tear-free and worry-free. A stable relationship with the new caregiver is key to helping your child feel safe, build a strong bond, and letting you 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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