Settling in
Annie Dennis recognises that children will have differing needs to help them settle in. We recommend an initial orientation period, starting off with short sessions and with a parent staying to help the child feel settled and secure. The Possums room has a planned orientation program (see the Possums Handbook - PDF, 84 KB), and in other rooms the staff will help you work out the best approach for your child. Download the Parents Handbook 2008 for full details about the Centre.
Some children find it more difficult than others to settle in to child care. Often children are very upset when the parent leaves, but settle quickly afterwards. Parents are encouraged to ring and check on their child if they are worried, or the staff will ring them if the child is having trouble settling.
Some strategies that may help include:
- after the initial orientation period, attach the pick up to a set time (eg after afternoon tea) to allow the child to anticipate this time and feel reassured.
- follow a routine so that the child knows when you will leave.
- help your child to make friends in the room by arranging play dates.
