LO going to childcare next month

hi mummies! my 17mo toddler will be going to childcare in the beginning of jan next month and just have a few qns: 1. currently our toddler isnt used to self-feeding using utensils as im aware that the childcare center provides their own lunch, i was wondering if LO starts going to childcare next month, will the teachers teach LO to eat by themselves? 2. our toddler is also a contact napper and can be difficult at times to settle down to sleep. if any parents have encountered this during their first day/week starting childcare, do the teachers inform the parents of any countermeasures or anything? 3. how do i emotionally prepare on LO’s first day? how do i prepare not to cry or restrain myself when LO sees me leaving and starts crying 🥹 #adviceappreciated #firsttimemom

andrea

first-time mum ?

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Hi Andrea, it's completely normal to feel anxious, but childcare teachers are absolute pros at handling this transition! To answer your questions: yes, the teachers will absolutely guide him to self-feed, and peer pressure works wonders when he sees his classmates eating with utensils. Even hardcore contact nappers adjust beautifully because the consistent school routine and peer environment help them adapt; the teachers will use soothing techniques like patting and keep you closely updated during the first week. When it comes to drop-off tears, the best trick is to keep your goodbye short, sweet, and confident—give a reassuring hug, say exactly when you'll be back (like 'after snack time'), and hand him over. If you linger, he will pick up on your anxiety, but most toddlers actually stop crying within 5 to 10 minutes of mom walking away. You've both got this!

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