TUNE OUT JUDGMENTAL PEOPLE
There are many out there who think all moms should be staying home and raising their kids and will happily tell you so. Do what’s right for your family, and if that means putting the kids in a safe and kind daycare environment while you work to support your family, that’s what you do.
THEY’LL PICK UP BAD HABITS, ALONG WITH GERMS
If a child has pink eye, it will run rampant through the toddler room, even with vigilant COVID cleaning. This will also happen in kindergarten and beyond, so don’t sweat it and just keep the pediatrician on speed dial. Instead, watch for your kid’s sudden love of Cheetos (because so-and-so brings them daily) or their obsession with an annoying pop song or TV show. And just wait for the day your sweet toddler demos how loud they can belch because they learned it from their new BFF.
PACK EXTRAS OF EVERYTHING
No matter how many changes of clothes you pack for your child, she will inevitably come home in clothes from the “extra” pile because she had multiple accidents in one day. Same goes for diapers and other supplies. More is definitely better.
PICK UP EARLY IF YOU CAN
Jobs and commutes can make it hard, but plan to get to daycare about 30 minutes before closing time, so even if you’re slightly delayed, you don’t end up accruing a mortgage payment worth of late fees because you were trapped on a public transportation.
MAKE THE STAFF PART OF YOUR TEAM
Obviously, they’ll have a list of health concerns and allergies and meds, but also, let them know if your child is having a tough time at home and what he may be struggling with. Daycare teachers are there to help your child develop and grow and if you’re lucky, they’ll even do the bulk of potty training for you.
RELAX AND DON’T STRESS
Your baby might cry when you leave. You may also cry at drop off. But take a deep breath and know that your child is in good and trustworthy hands. In fact, those bright-colored spaces have a variety of activities, both indoor and outdoor, and they’ll have the opportunity to be social. Chances are they’ll love it.