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(Unit 5) Topic 4: Early Childhood Classroom Schedules and Routines

2 Clock Hours of Early Childhood Education

Arrival Routines

​Topic 4 Page 9

​Arrival routines are an important beginning to the day. Arriving at child care can be stressful for many parents and children whether they are new to the center or experienced. Easing the transition from parental care to child care should be a priority for child care professionals, whether they work with infants or school-age children. 

​​Younger infants tend to have an easier time with arrival if they are fed, well rested and have a fresh diaper. When young infants arrive, they are looking for familiar faces and recognizable objects. Having a blanket or toy from home can help to ease their transitions daily. When infants are around 6 months old, many begin to develop separation anxiety. They are in tune with their primary caregiver and home and have difficulties adjusting to child care or a babysitter. If possible, have the same caregiver present to greet the child at arrival each day. Keeping consistency with the child care provider during this sensitive transition time will help infants and their parents feel secure and less stressed. A gentle and calm approach from the caregiver will go a long way to set the tone for the rest of the day in child care.

​​For preschool children, arrival is usually exciting as they are looking forward to playing with their classmates and participating in the activities that are planned for the day. Preschool age children are social and adaptable in most cases and are learning at a rapid rate. This usually means that they are motivated for their day in child care or preschool and are not overly concerned with their parents being gone for several hours. Of course, there are exceptions to this and some separation anxiety can occur. It is best to use patience and understanding when transitioning a child with separation anxiety.

​​​School-age children will typically come to child care before or after their school day. They are usually independently motivated and social with their peers. This makes arrival time much easier. Developmentally appropriate materials and activities will keep school-age children enjoying their time at child care and will encourage them to participate and have positive attitudes.

​Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety usually eases around age 2, for most children. If a toddler is still experiencing separation anxiety it is important to ease the transition just as you would for infants. The difference between easing the transition to child care for toddlers is that toddlers can be transitioned with an activity instead of a person. Yes, it is still important to have a familiar caregiver on staff for transition and arrival times, but it is helpful to use an engaging activity, book, or play center to ease the child’s anxiety. ​

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