I had one like this. It darn near drove me crazy ! When she was really little (just starting up at daycare, 12-18 months) I would take a few minutes and try my usual tricks - a cuddle, distraction (favourite toy, get her started on the day's craft, a story) if that didn't work she went to her crib until she stopped crying. When the fussing stopped, I'd get her right away and bring her back to the group with lots of "happy words" (I'm so glad that you're ready to play with us - we've been waiting for you) As she got older (she kept this drama up for a year) I had her sit on the stairs (no more cosy crib) I would actually tell her "We don't cry at daycare" and tell her that she could re-join us all in the Playroom as soon as she was ready to be a happy girl. She was a stubborn one - it took months, but now she comes in, smiling and ready to play/participate. I know it sounds harsh but I really think if the child learns that there is nothing to be gained (attention wise) by whining/crying they'll knock the behaviour off pretty quickly. And in my opinion, once they are a year and a half old, they're old enough to understand what kind of behaviour is expected at daycare.