Tips for Parents for Smooth and Easy Drop-Off and Pick-up

Sending your kids to a child care program can be tiring and upsetting for you as well as your kids. As a parent, you want your child to go happily but most of the time, this is not the case. Your little one might be extra particular and might not like to be with people who are not his parents.

Here are a few tips for parents for smooth and easy drop-off and pick-up at their child care center:

• Drop-off and pick-up should be calm and comforting: Your child will feel quite comfortable and happy if he is dropped off with reassuring good-byes in the morning and picked up with lots of hugs and kisses at the afternoon. Though the morning time is very hectic for most parents as managing house, kitchen and kids is difficult during the peak hours. However, stay calm and do not rush your little kids as they feel anxious and upset with your behavior. They will be calm if you are loving thus make sure you have enough time for comfortable transitions.

• ​​Have a positive bonding with the teacher: Kids follow what you do. If you share a positive bond with their caregivers, they too will start sharing a positive bond with them. Show them you are comfortable with the teachers in the childcare facility. Hand over your child to the teacher and do not just forcefully leave him in the room. If you show your trust towards his caregiver, soon he will feel comfortable and happy being with her.   
• Let your child carry his favorite toy or stuffed animal along: He can feel more secured by having his favorite toys or blanket at the childcare. After he adjusts in the new environment, he will soon forget about his toy or favorite lovey.
• Give your child’s photos to the caregiver: Take some pictures of your child performing leisure activities with you at home and hand it to the caregiver. The teacher should have a few photos of your child doing what he likes while at home, because when he feels upset or low, you can show him these pictures that will help him settle down quickly.
• Spend quality time with your child. Some moments of peace and togetherness ensures moral support to the child. Snuggle with your kid, recite some poems or rhymes with him, listen to his non-stop talk and sing him lullabies to give him comfort after a long day at childcare.
• Discuss with the teacher: Teachers and parents together help your child feel comfortable and happy. You can help the teacher by sharing your child’s information like his special needs, his routine and what he likes and dislikes. Let her know how you handle your child when he throws tantrums. Let her know about your child’s behavior and other habits. This way, the caregiver can be more like a mother to him when he feels distressed.

Remember, when transitions get tough, touch your child gently giving him a feeling of security. Hold him close and tight with his head on your shoulder. Calm down your tone and speak softly and settle him down. Give enough attention to your child’s need, whether he wants to walk around with your or just a quick cuddle before you leave him. You are an expert when it comes to your child.

Every child is different and responds accordingly.  It is important to be aware of their feelings and how they respond to different stimuli.  If a child feels loved, appreciated and heard, they are more likely to adapt well.  If you are looking for a great child care program in the Albany area, look no further than TSL Adventures.