Separation is a positive part of your child’s social development.

The first day at childcare can be an intimidating prospect for both children and parents, going one of two ways: with a tear-free drop off, or the complete opposite. Every child will be different, but you can usually see the signs of their need to develop socially with other children — if they lose interest in a favourite toy, or if they suddenly become more adventurous, for example.

Either way, there are things you can do to make the transition easier for your child, and yourself, from role playing to staying onsite for a few hours to help your child become accustomed to their new environment. Spending some time with the Educators or having a coffee and a chat with the Centre Director can also help set parents’ minds at ease. Clinical psychologist, Renee Mill, gives us 7 steps to help overcome separation anxiety in this Edge Early Learning story; [ Ссылка ]

The benefits of initiating your child’s independence cannot be underrated either, shaping their approach to not only schooling, but the rest of their life. You can read more about the benefits of early childhood education in this story by Rebecca Fien, one of our Edge Early Learning Centre Directors; [ Ссылка ]

At a practical level, you need to be sure you’ve sorted out your Child Care Subsidy (CCS). The best way to do that is to apply early — before your child’s start date — through the MyGov website. If you enrol with Edge, our team will lodge the application and will be able to give you more information about your entitlements.

Finally, you need to know what to bring on your first day, to ensure your child has everything they need:

• A spare change of clothes
• Comforters, if required
• Formula or breastmilk, and bottles
• Drink bottle and hat (supplied on enrolment)
• Bedding (available for purchase at reception).

The first day is a great milestone in your child’s life. Make sure you make the most of it!

Speak to the Centre Director at your local Edge centre to find out more, visit [ Ссылка ]

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