Childcare Orientation
Orientation is a funny one because childcare is a family affair.
Some families want to throw their children in the deep end, while others want to do daily orientations for five weeks in progressive half-hour increments.
Is either one of these approaches, right? Or wrong? What is best for children?
The answer is this: Families know their children best.
As a Centre, Sentia Early Learning offers a flexible orientation program.
1. We do recommend two x two-hour sessions but are happy to accommodate more (or less) as needed.
2. Orientations are completely free of cost.
3. We recommend scheduling them (at least the first one) at a time of day when your child is happy and rested.
4. 10:00 am to 12:00 pm usually works well. Alternatively, we offer a 3:00-5:00 pm time slot.
5. Please plan to stay for the first session, but by the second session (with all enrolment records in place), some parents are comfortable popping downstairs for a coffee.
6. This is a good time to practice your ‘Goodbye’ routine. We recommend giving children a cuddle and kiss and letting them know that you are going, but will return. Next, turn around a walkout. This opens the door for a ‘Hello’ routine when you are re-united a bit later.
7. We are always standing by in the office with tissues, for parents who need them. We know that saying goodbye can be very difficult.
Some of the benefits of orientations are:
Children are introduced to the new environment by the people they trust most in the world: their parents.
Parents are able to see Sentia Educators in action. Sometimes they see them under pressure. This helps to build trust and rapport before they leave their precious children in our tender loving care. As parents relax and trust, children will pick up on these cues. You can read more about how to prepare for the emotions of childcare here: https://raisingchildren.net.au/grown-ups/work-child-care/planning-starting-child-care/child-care-feelings
Educators and families have a chance to exchange valuable information about children; preferences, needs and quirks. This can relate to eating, sleeping or nappy changes/toileting.
Please do consider your child’s needs (and yours) for orientation before starting childcare. And don’t worry, if you decide you need more or less time along the way, we can be flexible.
The main aim is a smooth, settled start at childcare. We are here to support the whole family.
Happy orientation!