So, you've decided to begin working again and are now ready to leave your adorable toddler with a babysitter for the day. As exciting as it is for you to get back into the working world, it is also a big step for your young one. Listed below are the signs that your toddler is truly ready for daycare.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, quality childcare is an integral part of early childhood. It will provide stimulation for your toddler, but it'll also lay a solid foundation for language, cognitive and social development.
There are many types of toys and products that you can find at Special Needs Resources, and these can help with a child's cognitive development.
What is Daycare?
Daycare, also known as childcare, refers to the care of a child during the day by someone other than the child's legal guardians. Parents opt for daycare when they have to work or go to school and cannot care for their children themselves.
What Are the Signs Your Toddler Is Ready for Daycare?
Your child will be exposed to others their own age, which is important for development. But how do you know if your toddler is ready for daycare?
1. They Can Follow Routines
Your child will have to follow certain rules at daycare, such as following nap time schedules and waiting in line for lunch and bathroom breaks (depending on their age). If they’re already able to follow routines at home, they should be able to transfer this skill into a new setting like a daycare with ease.
2. They Show Independence
As your toddler enters their second year, they will become more independent and want to do more for themselves. This developmental milestone is part of healthy growth and development and a sign that your toddler is developing the confidence to master new activities without your help.
For them, this includes eating alone, playing with other toddlers, and even using the bathroom by themselves.
3. They Are Interactive
If your child does well with other children, then this could mean that they are ready for daycare. The first few days may be a little rough. Eventually, they will grow accustomed to being around other children and learn how to get along with them – an essential social skill they will need.
4. They Are Curious
Children who are regularly exposed to new people and situations are more likely to be prepared for daycare than children who usually stay at home.
If your little one loves meeting new people, exploring new places, trying new things, or showing interest in shapes, colors, and books, their minds are primed for learning and adventure.
5. They are Potty Trained
Potty training is a big step forward in any child’s development. It means that they’re completely ready to go through the day without messy accidents and can avoid being distracted by sudden urges. This is an important skill for them to develop before moving into daycare, where many other activities and lessons need their full attention.
Daycare Offers Young Children an Enriching Experience
Children who spend their time in group childcare settings gain valuable socialization skills that prepare them for success in school and beyond.
Studies have found that preschool or daycare adults have higher educational aspirations, self-esteem, and life satisfaction levels than those who did not participate in early childhood programs.
So, what do you think? Should parents send their young children to daycare? Leave a comment below!
References
http://www.creativebeginningscdc.com/signs-that-your-child-is-ready-for-day-care
https://frederickmontessori.com/signs-your-child-is-ready-for-daycare/
https://www.ultraupdates.com/2022/03/6-signs-that-your-child-is-ready-to-go-to-daycare/
