Settling Into Childcare: Practical Tips for Smoother Drop-Offs!

Starting childcare is a big milestone - for children and for parents/carers! If you’re preparing for your first week of childcare in Perth (or returning after a break), it’s completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and nerves.

The good news: there are simple, practical strategies that can make drop-offs calmer and help your child settle in with confidence without turning mornings into a battle.

Quick takeaway

“Settling in” isn’t a single moment. It’s a process that unfolds over days and weeks. With consistency, a predictable goodbye, and the right support from educators, most children gradually feel safe, connected, and comfortable in their new routine.

Who this guide is for

This article is for families who are:

• Starting childcare soon

• Moving rooms (e.g., into Nursery/Kindy)

• Returning after holidays or a long break

• Experiencing separation anxiety at drop-off

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What “settling in” really looks like

Many families expect a smooth first day and assume things should get easier from there but often it’s the opposite.

It’s common for children to:

• Explore confidently at first… and then become upset at drop-off later in the week

• Take time to connect with a key educator

• Show changes at home (sleep, appetite, clinginess, big emotions) while adjusting

  
  

This is all normal. Children are learning: Who are these new people? What happens here? Will my parent/carer come back?

At Landsdale Early Learning and Education, we focus on consistency, warmth and predictable routines so children can build trust at their own pace.

How long does it take for a child to settle into childcare?

Every child is different, but it’s very common for settling-in to take a few weeks.

Some children feel comfortable quickly. Others take longer—especially if they’re naturally cautious, have had a big change at home, or are starting childcare for the first time.

Rather than looking for an “instant fix,” it helps to watch for gradual progress, such as:

• Shorter upset periods at drop-off

• Increased interest in play

• Comfort with one or two familiar educators

• Easier transitions between activities

  
  

8 practical tips for smoother childcare drop-offs (and why they work)

1) Do a few short orientation visits

Before your child’s first full day, try to do a couple of short visits.

Why it works: Familiar spaces reduce stress. Your child starts recognising the room, the routines, and the educators so day one doesn’t feel like a complete unknown. We offer two orientation visits for families joining us.

2) Create a simple goodbye ritual

Choose something short and consistent, like:

“Cuddle, kiss, high-five, wave.”

Why it works: A predictable ritual is reassuring. It also signals clearly that goodbye is happening without creating a long, confusing build-up.

3) Keep drop-offs calm and confident

Even if you feel anxious inside, aim for a calm tone and steady body language.

Why it works: Children read adult cues. When you look calm, it tells your child: “You’re safe here.”

4) Bring one comfort item

If appropriate, send a comfort item like a soft toy, small blanket, or even a family photo.

Why it works: Comfort items support emotional regulation. They’re a bridge between home and childcare, helping children feel secure when they’re missing you.

5) Talk about childcare positively at home

Use simple, concrete language. For example:

“You’ll play, eat, rest, and I’ll come back after afternoon tea.”

Why it works: Predictability reduces anxiety. Children settle more easily when they understand what will happen next and when they’ll see you again.

6) Start with predictable days

If you can, begin with the same days each week.

Why it works: Routine builds faster when the pattern stays the same. Predictable attendance helps children feel more secure and makes transitions smoother.

7) Share key information with educators

Let your educators know what helps at home, such as:

• Favourite songs or phrases

• Comfort strategies that work

• Sleep routines

• Any recent changes (new sibling, moved house, health concerns)

Why it works: The more we understand your child, the better we can tailor support especially during the first few weeks.

8) Expect ups and downs

Settling isn’t linear. A hard morning doesn’t mean it’s not working.

Why it works: When families expect a few wobbles, it’s easier to stay consistent (which is exactly what your child needs).

FAQs (common questions families ask)

What should I say at daycare drop-off?

Keep it short and predictable. Try:

“I’m going now. You’re safe. I’ll be back after afternoon tea.”

Then follow your goodbye ritual and hand your child over to an educator.

Should I sneak out to avoid tears?

It’s tempting, but sneaking out often increases anxiety over time because children learn a parent/carer might disappear without warning.

A clear goodbye builds trust, even if there are tears at first.

What if my child cries every morning at childcare drop-off?

Some children cry at drop-off but settle quickly once they’re engaged in play.

If the crying continues for an extended time, talk with your educators—we can help adjust the routine, timing, and support strategies.

What should I pack to help my child settle in?

Depending on your centre’s guidelines, consider:

• A comfort item (if appropriate)

• A family photo

• A labelled water bottle

• Spare clothes (including weather-appropriate layers)

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When should I be concerned about separation anxiety?

If distress is intense, lasts most of the day, or doesn’t gradually improve over several weeks, book a chat with educators.

Together, we can create a tailored transition plan and consider whether additional support is needed.

How we support your child at Landsdale Early Learning and Education

At Landsdale ELE, we support children’s settling-in through:

• Consistent routines and a welcoming arrival

• Educator check-ins and comfort strategies

• Gentle, child-led participation in play (never forced)

• Regular updates and open communication so you know how the day is going

  
  

What to do if drop-offs are still hard

If you’re noticing ongoing distress, you don’t have to push through alone. We’ll work with you on a plan. Options might include:

• Shorter days for a brief period

• Adjusting drop-off timing

• A tailored transition strategy with a key educator

  
  

Closing

Starting childcare is a big step and it’s okay if it feels emotional at first! With the right strategies, children can settle in, build relationships and begin to thrive in their new environment.

If you’re considering Landsdale Early Learning and Enrichment, we’d love to show you around. Book a tour with us today!