After spending several months with their child, many parents gradually see a stable family routine take shape, very different from the one they had before the baby arrived. While this new life brings its share of happiness, returning to work gradually becomes a reality to consider.

This step often triggers mixed emotions: the need to regain time for oneself and one’s career can coexist with feelings of guilt about entrusting one’s child to someone else. This transition represents a significant adjustment for both parent and child, and it is normal to feel some anxiety about it.

Anticipating the transition

Preparing for this separation in advance makes the adjustment much easier. It is recommended to start the process early to secure a place in a daycare center that meets the family’s needs, ideally located near home or work. This step is part of the journey for many families, and everyone, parents and children alike, eventually adapts.

Each member of the family will have to find their own balance. Children aged 7 to 9 months may experience the separation more intensely due to the separation anxiety typical of this period. As much as possible, it is advisable not to add other major changes at the same time (moving, separation, birth of a new child, illness, etc.).

The essential role of daycare

Daycare centers offer a structured and stimulating environment that is conducive to children’s overall development: socialization, adaptation to new authority figures, integration into a group, and development of confidence. In a multi-age environment, younger children are stimulated by the example of older children, while the older children develop skills in helping and sharing.

Parents remain the primary attachment figure. Young children feel their parents’ emotions intensely. A climate of trust and security promotes a more harmonious adaptation. It is therefore essential that parents themselves feel reassured in order to better support their child through this stage.

Documents required prior to admission

Before a child can be admitted to daycare, certain documents are required:

• The birth certificate of the parent and child or a document certifying legal status in Canada (citizen, permanent resident, foreign student, refugee, etc.).

It is essential to consult the Ministry of Family Affairs website to verify eligibility criteria based on the family’s situation.

Types of childcare services

There are several differences between the types of childcare services available. These are explained below:

1. Regulated and subsidized family setting or facility (CPE)
2. Subsidized or non-subsidized private setting

1. Regulated and subsidized family setting

This type of setting is reassuring for parents because it meets strict standards:

• Application of the “Accueillir la petite enfance” educational program
• Supervision by a coordinating office and annual surprise inspections
• Mandatory continuing education for caregivers
• Criminal and medical background checks
• Compliance with child/adult ratios
• Daily outdoor activities
• Balanced diet in accordance with Canada’s Food Guide
• Environment that can be adapted to accommodate children with special needs

Multi-age environments offer several advantages:

• Younger children are stimulated by the example of older children
• Older children are valued in their role as helpers and role models
• Development of social skills and self-esteem
• Group stability and stronger bond with the educator

2. Subsidized or non-subsidized private environment

If you choose a subsidized private childcare setting, the caregivers are regulated in the same way as those who work in non-private childcare settings. They must therefore also comply with all quality standards in order to operate their business.

When it comes to non-subsidized private childcare settings, caution is advised.

In this type of setting, legal obligations are limited, which requires increased vigilance on the part of parents. Before making a choice, it is recommended that you ask several questions:

• First aid training
• Balanced menus
• Daily routine (educational activities, outings, rest, etc.)
• Experience and references
• Background checks conducted by a police agency

The environment must be safe and structured, and the staff must inspire confidence. Complaints filed with the Ministry of Family Affairs can be consulted.

Preparing for daycare

Practical recommendations

• Define your needs and expectations before signing an agreement
• Meet with the educator without the children to discuss the routine and assess the relationship dynamic
• Trust your intuition and choose an environment that aligns with your values
• Start your search several months before returning to work
• Talk to parents who have gone through this transition
• Ask all the important questions (schedules, number of days, routine, holidays, etc.)
• Reserve a spot as soon as possible.

Prepare your child

• Explain to your child what daycare is, even if they are very young.
• Make comparisons with familiar situations to reassure them.
• Visit several daycare centers.
• Schedule a first meeting with the educator without the children, then a visit with the children present.
• Inform the person in charge of your child’s lifestyle and temperament.
• Choose which parent will accompany the child to daycare based on who is the most calm and emotionally stable.
• Identify comforting items to bring (stuffed animal, blanket, photo).

Facilitate the transition

• Start with short visits and gradually increase the length of time.
• Explain the daily routine to the child.
• Adopt a clear and consistent separation routine.
• Avoid prolonged departures, remain calm and reassuring
• Contact the educator after departure if necessary to get an update
• Leave comforting objects with the child
• Stick to schedules to help the child keep track of time
• Don’t worry if the child doesn’t want to leave daycare at the end of the day—this often indicates a good level of adaptation

Communication: an essential pillar

A relationship of trust between parents and educators is essential. Any event that could influence a child’s behavior (sleep, diet, emotions, family changes) must be shared in order to ensure consistent support.

For more information

For daycare spots, visit the Ministry of Family Affairs’ Place 0-5 ans website.

You can also watch the Facebook Live video with Marlène Carbonneau, early childhood specialist, on the topic of starting daycare.

Marie Fortier
The baby expert

Updated: December 2020.