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First Day of Childcare: Building Confidence for A Smooth Transition

Creative Childcare • April 20, 2022

First Day of Childcare: Building Confidence for A Smooth Transition

Preschoolers have a lot of things on their minds. The first day of childcare probably is not one of them. They are too busy enjoying playtime with their peers and building valuable social skills to think that far ahead in their young lives. Even if preschoolers are not thinking about this next stage, their parents are likely to be already well-invested in the process. They want to ensure their little ones have the tools they need for a smooth transition into kindy. Here are some things parents can do to help ensure their children have the confidence they need to enter the next stage.


Teach age-appropriate independence

A good preschool or long daycare should include a school-readiness component that helps little ones learn – and practice – age-appropriate independence. Parents can help with confidence-building by giving their children more responsibility at home. Allow them to pick out their own clothing and dress for the day (even if the clothes do not exactly pair well). Encourage them to use the bathroom without help and to wash their hands afterwards. Give them some small chores they can complete on their own, like feeding the family pet or organising the toys in their rooms.


Develop and follow routines

Going to spend the day at a childcare centre is all about routines. Children who attend long daycare or preschool already will be familiar with the daily routines established at those programs. Parents can establish morning routines at home, to mimic those their children will follow once they start kindy. Children should get up, get dressed, and have their breakfasts at the same time each day to help prepare.


Encourage a growth mindset

Making comparisons with peers can be devastating and lead children down the path toward self-criticism. Encouraging a growth mindset can help children develop a healthy attitude toward their achievements. An important component of a growth mindset is to engage in self-talk that gently pushes children toward success rather than making them feel badly they may not do all the same things their peers can do. Rewarding effort rather than achievement also is a critical part of positive self-talk.


Engage in meaningful activities

Children love to learn and can be eager to help with meaningful activities when asked. Teaching children the practical skills they need to succeed in kindy can help ease the transition. Using fun, play-based methods like threading beads and dressing their favourite dolls or stuffed animals can help children learn fine motor skills and coordination. Building a tower together or assembling a DIY bowling alley are great ways to teach children how to take turns. A game like Simon Says helps them hone their listening skills.


Acknowledge their feelings

Children follow their parents’ lead. A few weeks before school begins, talk positively about going to childcare and ask children how they feel about it. Some children may be fearful of going to school whilst others cannot wait. Whatever they feel, take time to reassure them their feelings are valid and give them age-appropriate strategies for coping.


Choosing a quality childcare centre

Creative Childcare centres are family friendly play spaces. To learn more about our centres,

call 1300 002 929 or book a tour online.

December 10, 2024
Childcare Nutrition: Smart Snacking & Healthy Bites for Growing Kids At the heart of every child’s day is the nourishment they need to grow, learn, and thrive. At our three centres, we see nutrition as more than just food on a plate; it’s our way of inspiring healthy habits, delighting curious taste buds, and nurturing growing bodies and minds. Here’s how we incorporate smart snacking and wholesome nourishment into our daily care. Wholesome Snacking Habits Snack time is a chance to fuel children’s bodies with delicious and nutritious food choices. We offer a variety of fresh fruits, crunchy vegetables, and whole-grain delights to help children develop a taste for foods that support their growth and energy needs. These small but meaningful choices lay the foundation for a balanced and healthy diet. Nutrient-Rich Finger Foods Healthy eating at our centres is always fun and engaging! We provide nutrient-packed finger foods, like colourful veggie sticks, cheese cubes, and whole-grain crackers, which are perfect for little hands. These bites encourage independence while delivering the essential vitamins and minerals children need to thrive. Hydration for Happy Bodies Staying hydrated is just as important as eating well. That’s why water takes centre stage in our daily routine. We encourage children to prioritise this healthy habit by taking regular sips throughout the day, supporting their focus, energy, and overall well-being. Balanced Meal Time Adventures Mealtime is more than just a break—it can be a whole new adventure for children! We thoughtfully prepare meals with a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats to provide the energy and nutrients children need to learn, play, and grow. Every bite is part of their journey toward a healthier future. Creative Presentation for Appetising Appeal Healthy foods are as exciting as they are nourishing at our centre. We create a rainbow of fruits, fun-shaped sandwiches, and vibrant veggie platters to make mealtime an engaging and joyful experience. When food looks as good as it tastes, little ones are eager to dig in and discover new flavours. Mindful Eating Practices We teach children to slow down and connect with their food. By encouraging them to savour each bite and listen to their hunger and fullness cues, we help them foster a positive relationship with food that can last a lifetime. Allergen Awareness Creating a safe and inclusive environment is a top priority for us. We are attentive to food allergies and dietary restrictions, ensuring every child feels included and cared for during meals. This commitment to safety helps all children enjoy their food with confidence and joy. Educating Young Palates Mealtime is also a moment of discovery at our centre. Through fun activities and simple lessons, we teach children about different food groups, the benefits of healthy eating, and how food fuels their amazing bodies. These early lessons empower them to make thoughtful choices as they grow. Snack-Time Variety We believe variety is essential for growing palates! By offering an array of flavors and textures, we expand children’s taste preferences and help them develop an appreciation for different foods. Snack time is an exciting adventure full of new discoveries. Collaboration with Families We know that a child’s nutrition journey is most successful when home and childcare work together. That’s why we maintain open communication with families to ensure consistency and understanding of dietary preferences or restrictions. This partnership creates a seamless and supportive approach to healthy eating. At Creative Childcare, nutrition is about more than feeding young bodies; it’s about sparking joy, building confidence, and creating a foundation for lifelong healthy habits. Through thoughtful choices, creative presentations, and a nurturing environment, we empower children to thrive—one bite at a time. If you'd like to learn more about Creative Childcares services you can contact us by calling 1300 002 929 , by email at contact@creativechildcare.com.au or by filling out our online form .
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