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Childcare transitions can be difficult for both parents and baby. It is important to do everything you can to make them as smooth as possible.

Take your time; check out all available options for childcare. Some choices are having someone come to your home, bringing the baby to a babysitter or relative, group family daycare and childcare centers. Whatever your choice, make sure you are comfortable with you child's caregivers before making a decision.

If you are having someone come to your home to stay with your baby, have them come at least twice before you have to leave them with your baby. This gives your baby the opportunity to get to know his new caregiver and will help him feel more secure when in her care.
If you are bringing your baby to any of the other settings, go for visits. Make sure you are present during these times. Give your baby a chance to become familiar with the environment first, then with the new caregivers. Do not rush yourself or your baby. If the caregivers discourage these visits, you may want to rethink your decision and start shopping for someone new.

When you are ready to leave your baby with the caregivers, make it short the first time. Start with just an hour and gradually increase the time as you and your baby become more comfortable.

Make sure that your child has some familiar items so he will feel safe and comfortable. A special blanket or a stuffed toy is good. Another idea is to give him something of yours that smells like you or reminds him of you will make him feel more secure. Talk with his caregivers about the object, and explain that you want him to be able to have it with him throughout the day. If the caregivers discourage bringing items from home, reconsider your childcare arrangements.

Check in with your baby's caregivers periodically, and ask how he is doing. If he seems to be having trouble adjusting, discuss options with them. Often it will take time, possibly a week or more, for babies to feel comfortable in a new environment. Work together to try to help him feel more secure in their care.

A gradual transition is often the easiest way to help your baby and yourself adjust. Do what feels right. Do not let caregivers pressure you to do it their way. Most importantly, be sure that you are comfortable with your baby's caregivers. If you are at ease with the arrangement, you will be relaxed, and that will help your baby relax, too.

Learn more about this author, Marcia J.
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