How to Ease Separation Anxiety When Starting Daycare

Starting daycare is a big and exciting step for families—but let’s be honest, it can also bring a few tears, clingy hugs, and some anxious goodbyes. If your child is about to begin at a Montessori daycare in the Bronx, you might be wondering how to help make the transition as smooth as possible.

At A Place to Grow, a trusted preschool and daycare in the Bronx, we’ve supported hundreds of families through this adjustment. Here are seven simple, proven strategies to ease separation anxiety and help your child feel confident and excited for their new routine.

1. Talk Positively About Daycare

Speak about daycare as a safe, fun place where your child will make friends, play, and try new things.

• Read books about starting school to make the concept feel familiar.

• Use positive phrases like “You’re going to have a great day!”

Why it works: When parents speak about daycare with confidence, children feel more secure and open to the experience.

2. Visit Your Daycare Together

If possible, visit the daycare with your child before their first official day. At A Place to Grow, we encourage families to tour our preschool classrooms, meet the teachers, and explore our outdoor play areas.

• Show them familiar spots they’ll see again: “That’s where snack time happens!”

Why it works: Familiarity reduces fear and builds comfort before full-time attendance begins.

3. Practice Short Separations

Help your child adjust by spending short amounts of time apart before daycare starts.

• Leave them with a trusted friend or grandparent for 30–60 minutes.

• Gradually increase the time away to build their confidence.

Why it works: This helps children learn that separations are temporary—and you always return.

4. Create a Goodbye Routine

A quick, predictable farewell—like a hug, high five, or special phrase—gives children a sense of control.

• Avoid long, drawn-out goodbyes, which can increase anxiety.

Why it works: Routines give children reassurance and a clear transition from home to daycare.

5. Pack a Comfort Item

Send your child with a small blanket, stuffed animal, or family photo.

• These familiar objects help bridge the gap between home and daycare.

Why it works: A comfort item can ease homesickness and give children a sense of safety.

6. Stay Calm and Confident

Your child picks up on your emotions.

• Keep your goodbye upbeat and encouraging—even if you’re feeling a little nervous.

Why it works: Children mirror your attitude. If you’re confident, they’ll feel more secure too.

7. Communicate with Daycare Teachers

Let your child’s teacher know about any special preferences or concerns.

• At A Place to Grow, our experienced staff knows how to gently guide children through the early days.

Why it works: Teamwork between parents and teachers helps children feel supported and understood.

Why Montessori Inspired Daycare in the Bronx Helps with Transitions

Montessori-inspired daycare programs—like ours at A Place to Grow—are designed to foster independence, calm, and emotional resilience.

• Classrooms are welcoming, organized, and child-led.

• Children learn at their own pace, gaining confidence through hands-on learning and real-world skills.

This kind of nurturing environment is especially helpful for easing separation anxiety and encouraging self-assurance.

The First Week Is Just the Beginning

It’s completely normal to see a few tears or tough mornings in the beginning. But with a little patience, preparation, and trust in your Bronx daycare team, your child will settle in beautifully.

Soon, they’ll be walking into the classroom with a smile—and you’ll feel proud watching them grow.