How to prepare your little one to go back to nursery

Daycares and preschools across the country are preparing to reopen this week with new safety measures in place. No matter your stance, at some point, our little ones will return to childcare, and after months at home, how can we help them adjust to yet another change? We've put together some helpful ways to ease their transition back to daycare or preschool.

Talk About Daycare – Start talking about daycare a few days before they return. It’s normal for kids to feel apprehensive about going back, so consider taking them on their usual route to daycare a day or two before reopening to remind them of the building and surroundings. Talk about their favorite teachers, friends, and activities they enjoy. If they become upset, validate their feelings, answer their questions, and try approaching the topic again later.

Check Out Daycare Online Portals – Many daycare centers have online portals where parents can see what their children have been up to during the day. These activity updates can help remind your child of all the fun they had before. Looking through old photos or discussing previous projects may build excitement and ease nerves.

Establish a Strong Handwashing Routine – Good hand hygiene is essential for reducing the spread of germs, and getting your child into a solid handwashing routine before they return to daycare will help. Teach them how to wash their hands properly for at least 20 seconds—singing a song like "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" can make it fun! The AAP has great tips on effective handwashing techniques for children.

Prepare for Social Distancing – Many daycare centers will implement social distancing measures, such as drop-off at the door and designated play zones. Prepare your child for these changes by explaining that everyone is doing their part to stay safe. Give yourself extra time at drop-off to allow for these adjustments and reduce stress for both you and your child.

Apply Sunscreen Before You Leave – With all the beautiful weather lately, sunscreen is a must! Applying it before drop-off helps daycare staff focus on reapplication instead of the initial coverage. Teach your little one how to apply sunscreen so they get used to doing it on their own. Be sure to cover all exposed areas, including ears and the back of the neck, and inform daycare staff if your child needs assistance.

Encourage Tissue Use – Just like proper handwashing, teaching your child to use tissues for sneezing and coughing is crucial for preventing the spread of germs. Reinforce the "Catch it, Bin it, Kill it" habit by keeping tissues readily available. Encourage your child to use one tissue at a time and dispose of it properly afterward.

We hope these tips help prepare you and your little one for the changes they may encounter when returning to their childcare setting.

Good luck, and Baa for now! x