BACK
Most parents wonder what age is the ideal time to send their child to daycare or childcare, but there is no definitive answer. Many factors play a role in determining when a child is ready. It is also an individual preference and depends on a family’s circumstances.
Daycare has a multitude of benefits, including preparing them for school and, in general, broadening their whole world. During the early baby years, the decision is easier. Usually, the parents’ work timetable and commitments make daycare a necessity or a suitable alternative.
To support your family in making the most informed decision, we’ve gathered information based on current research to help you.
While some experts believe that children are ready for childcare from 12 months, some families are comfortable sending babies under one year old to childcare. There are a range of childcare facilities and trained educators for children of all ages, with many centres equipped to care for even very young children, from 6 weeks. It ultimately comes down to your and your child’s unique needs and circumstances.
When assessing your child’s readiness, the following behaviours show that your child may be ready for daycare, where they can learn and build on their social and developmental skills.
- Independence: Can they get around alone and play with other children?
- Routine: Do they have routines, such as meals and sleep at the same time each day?
- Separation: Have they spent time with other family members or friends? Have you and your child ever been separated for long periods?
- Curiosity: Are they interested in shapes and sounds? Are they trying to draw or scribble?
The fact is, readiness for daycare is so individual. Some children may be overwhelmed by sensory overload, noise, and keeping to a schedule. However, if your child is comfortable in groups, then short periods in a group environment will stimulate them, and they’ll be able to cope without you. So it depends on your child’s temperament. Some children are at a stage where they are asking to see other kids, which means childcare is a great option. If not, it may be best to wait until they are a little older.
You’re finally ready for your child’s first day of daycare. What do you need to pack, so your little one has everything they need for the day? As a general rule, try to think of everything your child uses or may need on a regular day at home. This also depends on the type of daycare you have chosen. Many daycare centres, especially long daycare, provide many basics, such as nappies and sunscreen.
Here’s a list of essential items:
- Water bottle
- Sun hat
- Nappies
- Two sets of spare clothes
- Favourite toy or soothing blanket
- Any medicines
When it comes to picking the right daycare for your child, it also comes down to individual needs and preferences. The most important consideration is ensuring your child is in a safe and nurturing environment. This is where they can develop a trusting relationship with educators and peers.
There are situations where parents have little choice but to leave their children in daycare for the whole day. As long as it is a quality daycare centre with good carer-to-children ratios, this is not a problem. A child’s enjoyment of daycare also depends upon their care and attention at home with their parents.
Children enrolled in care for at least two to three days per week experience greater long-term benefits, including an easier transition to school. The benefits of high-quality early childhood education are far-reaching, so children must be allowed to experience all of the available benefits.
If you want to learn more about care and how we can get the best out of your child, call Young Academics on 1300 668 993 to book a tour.
