Parent of a 1 yr old having trouble transitioning to daycare

[gramma]

Hello everyone! Just looking for some advice. I'm a parent of a 1yr old who just went through her first week of transitioning to a daycare. To make a long story short, it went horribly. My daughter screamed the entire time she was there (she went on Tuesday for 1hr, Wednesday for 1.5hr and on Friday for 3hrs). I am actually quite surprised about her reaction to daycare, as we did a tonne of programs when I was on maternity leave, and most of the time she would take off and play with the other kids and could care less if I was there. I have absolutely no concerns with the daycare provider - she's been great considering what she has had to endure LOL! Just wondering if anyone has any suggestions for making her transition a little easier (I already send her with two blankies from home and I'm going to try sending her favourite DVD to the daycare on Tuesday). Also, I want to get the daycare lady a little something to thank you for having to deal with my SCREAMING daughter last week! Any ideas on what I should get her (just something small)

Thanks!

Over my 17 years I have tried many different way to transition kids into my daycare and to be honest, the best way I have found is to start full time right away. I find the one hour here and there just doesnt work. Its best to get the kids started into the routine right away. Nothing works perfect for every child but in my experience jumping right in works best. As for getting something for your provider, maybe just bring a coffee or tea and a muffin or croissant in the morning for her to "help" her get through the rough patches. My most valued gifts from clients are the cards that are given that express their apreciation for my hard work.

[JennJubie]

Over my 17 years I have tried many different way to transition kids into my daycare and to be honest, the best way I have found is to start full time right away. I find the one hour here and there just doesnt work. Its best to get the kids started into the routine right away. Nothing works perfect for every child but in my experience jumping right in works best. As for getting something for your provider, maybe just bring a coffee or tea and a muffin or croissant in the morning for her to "help" her get through the rough patches. My most valued gifts from clients are the cards that are given that express their apreciation for my hard work.

I was going to say that, too. A coffee or tea at drop off would be perfect. It's a little thing, but it shows that you appreciate her efforts. I would be very happy with this gesture.

[Judy Trickett]

Over my 17 years I have tried many different way to transition kids into my daycare and to be honest, the best way I have found is to start full time right away. I find the one hour here and there just doesnt work. Its best to get the kids started into the routine right away.

I agree. The easiest transitions work with the cold turkey approach.

OP.....make sure you are on board with using the same techniques your provider uses with regard to parenting. It makes it less of a transition from home to daycare.

Personally, I think you should just drop your daughter off in the morning and let her stay whole days. I bet by this time next week she will be crying a whole lot less if you do that.