Daycare First Week Tips for Regina SK Parents — What to Expect at Daisy Days Daycare

Your child’s first week at Daisy Days Daycare in Regina SK will be one of the most significant transitions of their early years. Understanding what to expect — and how to support your child — makes the first week much easier for everyone. Here’s what you need to know. Call 306-807-3233 with any questions before your child’s first day.

The Gradual Transition Plan

Daisy Days Daycare uses a gradual transition approach for all new families. Plan for approximately 1-2 weeks of gradual transition before your full return to work:

• Day 1-2: Parent stays at daycare with child for 1-2 hours. Child explores with parent present as a secure base.
• Day 3-4: Parent leaves for 1-2 hours, returns for pickup. First short separations.
• Day 5-7: Gradually extend separation — half-day, then three-quarter day.
• Week 2: Full-day as tolerated, aiming for full-day by end of week.

What to Pack for the First Week

• Change of clothes (2 sets for toddlers — accidents happen)
• Comfort item / transitional object (small stuffed animal, photo of family)
• Labeled water bottle
• Sunscreen (warm months) — apply before drop-off
• Indoor shoes with Velcro or elastic (toddlers/preschoolers)
• Weather-appropriate outdoor gear
• For infants: formula/expressed breast milk (labeled), diapers, wipes, sleep sack

What to Expect Emotionally — For Your Child

Most children experience some form of adjustment challenge in the first 1-4 weeks at a new daycare. Typical responses include:

• Crying at drop-off (usually resolves within 5-15 minutes)
• Increased clinginess at home in evenings
• Sleep disturbances at home during the first 1-2 weeks
• Appetite changes — either more or less hungry than usual
• Behaviour regression (thumb-sucking, baby talk) — normal and temporary

What to Expect Emotionally — For You

First-week parental guilt is near-universal. The good news: research consistently shows that quality licensed daycare with warm educators is beneficial for child development. Your child is safe, stimulated, and supported at Daisy Days Daycare. The guilt is your brain’s ancient attachment system responding to separation — not a sign you’re doing the wrong thing.

How to Talk to Your Child About Starting Daycare

• Use positive, excited language: “I can’t wait to see what you make today!”
• Read books about starting daycare together (ask Daisy Days for recommendations)
• Visit the daycare together before the start date if possible
• Name the educators: “Ms. [Name] is going to be there — she’s so kind”
• Be honest: “I’ll miss you and I’ll be back at 5 o’clock — I always come back”

Full gradual transition guide → | Separation anxiety guide →

Enroll at Daisy Days Daycare — Licensed CWELCC Daycare Regina SK
📞 Call 306-807-3233 | Contact Us →
2007 Potts Crescent East | Regina, SK S4V 2E5 | CWELCC $10/Day | Licensed Since 2010