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Settling In: Supporting Children Through the Transition Into Child Care

Starting child care marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for children and families. While it can come with mixed emotions, thoughtful transitions and strong partnerships help children feel safe, supported, and ready to thrive. 

Starting child care is a significant milestone that introduces new environments, unfamiliar faces, and different routines. For children, and often for parents too, this period can bring excitement alongside uncertainty. At Discover My World, we recognise that transitioning into care is not something that happens overnight. It is a journey, and every child’s journey looks a little different.


How long does it take for children to settle?

There is no set timeline for settling into child care, and that is completely normal. Some children feel comfortable very quickly, while others may take weeks or even months to fully adjust.

You may notice your child cries at drop-off but settles soon after, or that they appear happy during the day and release big emotions once they are back home. These responses are all part of healthy emotional development and adjustment.

Occasionally, educators and families may notice signs that a child needs additional support. This can include ongoing distress that does not ease over time, withdrawal from play or relationships, or significant and persistent changes in eating, sleeping, or behaviour. Open communication between families and educators is key in ensuring children receive the support they need to feel secure.

How we support children through transition

At Discover My World, transition is something we actively support and thoughtfully plan for. We do not expect children to simply adapt on their own.

Support strategies include orientation visits that allow children to explore their new environment alongside their parent, helping to build familiarity and trust before their first official day. Many families choose to begin with shorter days initially, giving children time to adjust without becoming overwhelmed.

Predictable routines play a vital role, as children feel safest when they know what to expect next. We also encourage calm, confident, and efficient drop-offs. While goodbyes can be emotional, lingering can sometimes make separation harder for children.

Familiar comfort items such as a favourite teddy, blanket, or family photo can help bridge the connection between home and care. Consistency is especially important. Children who attend more days each week often settle more quickly, as regular attendance supports familiarity with routines, environments, and educators.

What can parents do to help?

Families play a vital role in supporting a smooth transition into care. Talking positively about child care, educators, and the day ahead helps build confidence and trust.

Maintaining consistent routines at home where possible, keeping drop-offs predictable, and trusting educators to support your child once you leave all send strong messages of safety and reassurance.

Sharing information about your child’s interests, comfort strategies, and cues allows educators to respond thoughtfully and effectively. Most importantly, be kind to yourself. Transitions can be emotional for parents too, and children often take cues from the adults around them.

What do educators do?

Educators play a crucial role during transition periods, often in ways that happen quietly and consistently throughout the day. They focus on building secure relationships, observing children closely, responding to emotional cues, and creating warm, predictable environments.

Educators offer comfort, reassurance, and co-regulation, while adapting expectations to meet each child where they are. They work closely with families, sharing updates and observations to ensure every child feels supported, safe, and connected.

A shared journey

Transitioning into child care is not about rushing independence. It is about building belonging, security, and strong relationships. When families and educators work in partnership, children are given the strongest foundation to grow in confidence and thrive.

Our Discover My World Promise

At Discover My World, we understand that starting child care is a big step for both children and families. Our educators are here to walk alongside you, building strong relationships, supporting gentle transitions, and creating environments where every child feels safe, seen, and secure.

Together, through trust, consistency, and open communication, we support children to grow in confidence, form meaningful connections, and truly feel that they belong. Because when children feel supported, they do not just settle, they thrive.

If you ever have questions, concerns, or simply need reassurance along the way, our doors and our hearts are always open.

Further reading and support

For families who would like to explore this topic further, the following trusted resources offer practical guidance and reassurance:

 
 
 

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