5 Ways to Tell Your Child is Thriving in Childcare
Our children are the most precious little souls we get the privilege of raising. Our greatest wish for our children is to ensure they are safe and happy and are given every opportunity to flourish. That’s why the decision to choose the right care arrangement for your child is so important. But how do you know if your child is thriving in childcare?
Community Kids Childcare & Early Education Centres Operations Manager, Freya Lucas says, “When care is being given by an early childhood education service, parents will often tell us ‘I want them to learn and grow, to make new friends, to have fun … and maybe to miss me, just a little.
“As someone who is blessed enough to help care for these precious little people, day in and day out, I am happy to say, they do miss you, they talk about you with such fondness, and love to greet you with the biggest of smiles and hugs when you return at the end of your busy day.”
The childcare expert understands our concerns as parents in finding the right care provider for our children. Ms Lucas says there are 5 ways to tell if your child is thriving in childcare.
1. Your Child is Eager to Get to Childcare
If your child requires little prompting when completing their morning routine, without the odd tantrum, you can take this as a sign that they are happy about where they are going to spend their day. Sometimes an unusual event, like a late night the night before can see kids a little less eager to get ready, but overall, if you notice your child makes an effort to pack their bag and make their bed so they can get to care, you can be assured that’s a good first sign.
2. Your Child Has Friends
Children who thrive at their daycare will have connections with the teachers and other children in their class. Your child may talk excessively about an educator or a particular child they like to play with. The relationships between your child and their educator is a good sign they feel safe and secure at their childcare.
3. Your Child Sings a Song You Haven’t Taught Them
If you notice your child singing or humming a song you haven’t taught them, or a phrase you’re not familiar with, this can be another sign your child feels safe at their place of care. Happy children will retain and recite what they learn in a safe environment.
4. Your Child Will be Able to Tell You About Their Day
If your child is able to communicate verbally with you, they will able to answer your question of ‘so what did you do today? What did you have for lunch?’ These conversation starters will allow your child to share what they did during the day. If they are happy to tell you what they got up to, this is another great sign they are getting the care they need.
5. Your Child Won’t Want to Leave When You Pick Them up
When you come to collect your child, they will be happy to see you but will continue playing or being engaged in the activity when you tell them it’s time to go home. This is a great sign your child is in the right childcare environment.
These 5 signs are great indicators of whether your childcare is catering to your child’s needs.
Ms Lucas says “Of course, every child is different, growing, learning, and developing at different rates. Just like the rest of us, children have preferences about the people they connect with, and the things they like to do.
“But you can also be sure about what’s going on at childcare by talking to the educators about your child’s experience. A sign of a great childcare service is one that is always ready to talk with you about your child’s progress, and how they are settling in to the care.”
