Baby Childcare

Overview

Whether you're returning to work or seeking opportunities for your young baby to socialise and learn, childcare can provide a safe and nurturing learning environment. Childcare, sometimes referred to as daycare, can feel both exciting and emotional at the same time. Childcare offers helpful opportunities for social, emotional, and language development. 

Below are some things to consider when choosing and starting childcare for your baby.

Choosing a Childcare Centre

Choose a centre that suits your family and child needs. Talk to the centre director and ask about safety, food, sleep, procedures when baby is sick and the centre values and beliefs around care. Asking these questions can you help you decide if the childcare is going to be a good place for you and your young baby. The Australian Government has guides to help you choose a childcare. 

Starting childcare

• Establish a Routine: In the weeks leading up, adjust routines to align with childcare hours. Try practicing an age-appropriate morning routine together, which may include getting dressed, having a milk feed and/or solid food, and saying goodbye.
• Practice Separation: Short practice separations, like time with relatives, can help your child get used to being apart from you.
• Bring Familiar Comforts: Check with the Childcare, and if allowed, send a familiar comfort item with your baby. For example, they may have a favourite toy, blanket, or item from home which they find comforting and can help them feel more secure at the times they feel unsure in their new environment.

Tips for Helping your Baby Settle into Childcare

• Stay Calm and Positive: Babies often pick up on parental emotions, so showing confidence and excitement helps reassure them. 
• Communicate with Caregivers: Talk with educators about your baby’s needs, preferences, and any concerns, so they can help them feel at ease. Stay connected through the various forms of communication the Childcare provides. Many have apps or emails where you can see photos and get regular updates about your child. 
• Be Patient: The adjustment period varies. Some babies may settle quickly, while others need more time. Age typically indicates developmental ability. With babies closer to the 12-month mark being more aware, it may take them longer for them to adjust to childcare. If you can take a longer time to work up the total hours you are needing them in childcare it may be easier for them to adjust. With reassurance and consistency, most children become comfortable over time.

When it’s time to say Goodbye

Use a Clear, Consistent Goodbye: Always make sure to say goodbye to your child, even if they are happily engaged in play. Disappearing without a goodbye can lead to feelings of mistrust or anxiety, as they may fear you could leave unexpectedly at other times. 

Once You’ve Said Goodbye, Stick to It: If your baby becomes upset, ask a caregiver to offer comfort, then leave. Returning repeatedly can confuse them and increase separation anxiety, as it may give mixed signals about your departure.

The Role of Parents in Supporting Early Development at Childcare

Childcare is a partnership. Stay engaged by:

• Communicating Regularly: Share updates with caregivers about your baby’s preferences, milestones, and routines.
• Following Up at Home: Reinforce learning and routines from childcare through play and activities at home.
• Staying Involved: Attend meetings, participate in events, or volunteer at the centre if possible.