Ms. Narcy

The first few daycare drop-offs can be emotional for both children and parents.

A child may cry, hold tightly to a parent, or ask them not to leave. A parent may walk away wondering, “Will my child be okay?”

As a Registered Early Childhood Educator and a mom, I have stood on both sides of the classroom door. I have comforted children during tearful goodbyes and reassured parents who were carrying worry and guilt with them to work.

Here are five simple tips that can help make daycare drop-off easier for your child.

1. Keep Goodbyes Short

Give your child a loving hug and use a short, reassuring goodbye.

You might say:

“I love you. Have fun today. I’ll see you after work.”

After saying goodbye, leave calmly and confidently. A long goodbye can sometimes make the separation feel more difficult.

2. Don’t Sneak Away

It may seem easier to leave while your child is distracted, but your child may become confused or worried when they suddenly realize you are gone.

Instead, give your child a hug, say goodbye clearly, and let them see you leave.

This helps your child learn an important message: Mom or Dad leaves, but they always come back.

3. Trust the Educators

It is okay if your child cries at drop-off.

Crying is one way young children communicate their feelings. Educators can comfort them, acknowledge their emotions, redirect their attention, and gently help them become involved in play.

Your child’s tears do not automatically mean they will be unhappy for the rest of the day.

4. Create a Consistent Morning Routine

Children often feel more secure when they know what will happen next.

Try to keep your mornings predictable:

Wake up, eat breakfast, get dressed, travel to daycare, give a hug, say goodbye, and leave.

The routine does not have to be perfect. What matters is that it feels familiar and dependable.

5. Celebrate Small Progress

Every child adjusts at a different pace.

Some children settle within a few days. Others may need several weeks. Both experiences can be normal.

Notice and celebrate the small victories:

One less tear.

One smile at the educator.

One new friend.

One happy moment at drop-off.

Progress matters more than perfection.

From Tears to Trust

A tearful goodbye today does not mean your child will not thrive tomorrow.

With patience, consistency, and a trusting partnership between parents and educators, children can gradually feel safe, connected, and confident in their daycare environment.

Tears can become trust.

— Ms. Narcy
Registered Early Childhood Educator & Mom

This article was inspired by From Tears to Trust: An Educator and Mom’s Inside Guide to Helping New Moms Navigate Daycare with Confidence.