Supporting Smooth Transitions Back into Childcare This Fall

We hope you are enjoying the last stretch of summer! As September approaches, many families are preparing for their children to return to care routine, some for the very first time. Here are a few simple ways families can help ease the transition back into your childcare environment.

Encourage Mealtime Independence

While children are not typically involved in food preparation, they are still encouraged to develop independence during mealtimes.
At home, families can support this by helping children practise:

• Using real utensils to feed themselves with confidence.
• Drinking from open cups or child-friendly reusable cups with lids, instead of relying solely on bottles or sippy cups.
• Clearing their dishes after eating, placing cups and plates in a designated bin, dish tub, or dishwasher.
• Sitting together for family-style meals to model and reinforce healthy eating routines and good table manners.

Older children can take it a step further by helping choose water bottles or containers that are easy to manage and reflect their preferences. When children are confident in managing their meals, it sets them up for success in a busy childcare environment where educators foster self-help skills and independence every day.

Build Dressing Skills Through Practice

In Ontario childcare centres, children are supported in learning how to dress and undress for outdoor play, toileting, and rest time. Families can help by giving children time to:

• Practice putting on shoes, zipping coats, and pulling up pants.
• Choose clothing that is easy to manage independently (e.g., elastic waistbands, Velcro shoes).
• Prepare outerwear and indoor shoes the night before to reduce morning stress.

These habits not only support independence but also foster a sense of readiness and pride.

Create a Consistent Goodbye Routine

Mornings can be emotionally charged for children and families, especially after a break from routine. A clear and consistent goodbye process can make a big difference.
Here are a few tips:Discuss what drop-off will look like (e.g., “We will say goodbye at the door with one hug and a high five”).

• Keep goodbyes short and positive. Lingering often increases anxiety.
• Practise the goodbye routine at home through play; children love to take turns pretending to be the adult!
• Be confident and calm. Children take emotional cues from the adults around them.

Consistency and clarity help children feel safe and supported as they move into the care environment for the day.

Reset Sleep and Morning Routines

Summer often brings later bedtimes and slower mornings. To support a smoother return to childcare:

• Gradually shift bedtime earlier by 15-minute intervals over several nights.
• Wake up a little earlier each day to adjust to the new morning rhythm.
• Ensure there is enough time in the morning to get ready without rushing.

Arriving early or on time allows children to ease into their day, connect with educators, and engage in learning from the start rather than feeling overwhelmed by a busy drop-off.

A Final Thought 

Transitions, whether back into care or starting a new program, can be emotionally layered for children and adults alike. With patience, preparation, and a few practical strategies, families can ease this process and help their children feel secure and excited for what lies ahead.

Your partnership with educators and centre staff makes all the difference.