How to prepare your child emotionally and practically for childcare
Starting childcare is a big milestone, and it’s normal for young children to experience big feelings. What feels like a short separation to an adult can seem endless to a young child who’s still learning about routines, relationships, and the concept of time.
At Enrich, our approach is infused with Emotional Intelligence teachings: we validate each child’s feelings, guide them through their worries with gentle reassurance, and help them rediscover calm and confidence through play. This allows them to feel safe, supported, and ready to explore their new environment.
Some tips to support your child at home
You can help your child get ready to start in childcare with these confidence-building tools:
- Read books about starting childcare.
- Talk about what to expect in simple, age-appropriate terms.
- Practice short separations. For example, by leaving the room briefly and returning quickly.
- Explore their feelings by positively chatting about childcare.
Ask your educators for tips, too
We encourage families to share about their child’s routines and favourite activities, such as stacking blocks, singing songs or reading books. The educators will do their best to include these activities in their routines. You know your child best, and we’re here to complement that knowledge with emotional support, consistency, and care.
Preparation isn’t just packing a bag —
it’s helping your child feel safe, seen, and supported to explore the world beyond your arms
Practical tips to prepare for childcare
In the day(s) leading up to your child’s first day, try:
- Stay-and-play sessions: Short visits to explore the space, meet the educators, and play alongside other children. These visits help your child feel familiar with the environment while you observe the educators and the learning setting.
- Drive-by or playground visits: Even just walking past the centre or pointing it out helps familiarise your child with the centre before their first day.
- A goodbye ritual: Hugs, high-fives, or a short phrase, such as “I love you,” become a predictable routine that helps your child bridge from “home” to the “centre” and reduces anxiety.
- Aligning home routines: Gradually adjust nap, meal, or play times to match the centre‘s rhythm. If your child is starting in nursery or toddlers, discuss their home routine and nap times with the educator, as they may be able to accommodate your child’s needs.
- Encourage independence. Let your child carry their backpack or water bottle if ready (no pressure, though, because every child develops at their own pace).
Book a stay-and-play
Visiting your chosen centre helps your child feel familiar and gives you confidence too — if you’re local, book a stay-and-play with us here.
How EQ can help
So, how can emotional intelligence support your child during this transition? EQ is about recognising, naming, and responding to emotions in healthy, helpful ways. For young children, it starts with co-regulation, which means their nervous system is settling through your calm presence.
Simple morning rituals for co-regulation
- Take three deep breaths together.
- Establish a consistent and loving goodbye routine.
- Repeat reassuring phrases like “I’ll always come back” or “You’re safe with your educators. I’ll see you after lunch.”
A gentle word from us
Every family’s start to childcare looks a little different, and that’s okay. Some children run in excitedly, while others prefer a gentler start. Both are normal. Our role is to walk beside you — to listen, guide, and celebrate the small steps of courage your child takes each day.
At our Gold Coast early learning centre, we combine Montessori-inspired principles with emotional intelligence teachings, helping children feel safe, confident and excited for their new childcare adventure.
If you’d like to explore our emotionally intelligent approach to early learning and childcare in person, we’d love to welcome you for a tour.
FAQ's: Preparing your child to start childcare at Enrich Early Education on the Gold Coast
How often and how long should I visit before my child’s first day?
Even one or two short stay-and-play visits help your child feel familiar. 15–30 minutes is plenty to explore and meet educators.
What if my child cries on the first day?
Crying at childcare drop-offs is normal. The educators will stay close to your child, offer comfort, and most children settle quickly. We’ll always call if your child needs extra support.
How can I help my child feel confident at drop-off?
Use short, predictable goodbyes, practice morning routines at home, and model calmness. Naming their feelings and giving small choices also builds emotional independence.
Next up: Navigating separation anxiety with confidence and care
If you’re worried about goodbyes, read our blog on separation anxiety in childcare.