I find 2 weeks usually seems to be the "magic" number. Sometimes less, sometimes more though depending on the child. As long as I see improvement each week it doesn't concern me too much. If it's been a month and no change, I would likely consider terminating. Just as adults don't always get along, sometimes kids just aren't the right fit for our daycare.

I usually take a day or two to get to know the child and than it's right into our normal routine after that and I cut any habits that need be....holding all the time, having to have a blanky, sleep patterns etc. The quicker they know what the routine is the better IME.

Good luck! We have all been there One of the only things I hate about this job is transition periods lol. I was spoiled with my first handfuls of kids but the last couple haven't been as great so I feel your pain! lol