I not often have transitions. They come in cold first morning at what will be their normal drop off time. I find younger children do better than age 2+ with this.

I have two times has slower transition with breast feeding Mom or those who been paying for empty space before they need it, and then they like start couple week before need to. I do allow but not day here and there. I strongly suggest that each day, set time, getting longer day is best way. It never seem work if they have day here, day home, type arrangement.

I doing this again min-Nov too. Space will be empty from this Monday and so parent paying for space but not need go back work until December. Child will come 7am and be picked up by 11am to begin. Then stay for lunch few days in. And before proper start will extend day until after nap time then be picked up. Finger crossed. I not like phase ins.