Make sure to set aside time to visit the facility together before the arrangement is scheduled to begin.

Let your child take a favorite stuffed animal, blanket, pillow, toy, or even a picture of you and the family. These things will give him/her comfort.

Establish a daily routine so your child knows when you'll be leaving and when you'll return. It will make both your days go better.

Take a little extra time in the morning when you leave your child with the provider and in the evening when you pick her/him up. This is a good time to talk to the provider and let your child gradually enter or leave on her/his own terms, in her/his own time. Always say good-bye as you leave. Never sneak out. You are trying to establish trust in this new situation.

Remember: If you feel confident and enthusiastic, chances are that your child will also. Change requires time for adjustment. Your child may fall back on more familiar and comfortable behavior while he/she adjusts to new surroundings. If the child was toilet trained, he/she may start to have accidents. If the child was beginning to talk, she/he may have less to say. These are temporary delays while your child adjusts to a new situation.

Talk with your provider; they probably have experience dealing with separation and can offer suggestions.