Daycare-transitioning from 1/2 day to full day?

[lecach]

Im trying to be prepared in case I get the job that I interviewed for last week. I've been laid off since August.

DS (3 years old) started going to his current daycare on Oct. 29. We switched him due to my layoff - we needed some care just not all day. He only goes 1/2 days from 9-1. All he has known at this school is 1/2 days and being picked up while the other kids are napping. Assuming I get the job, and assuming it's 8-5, DS will be at daycare most days from 7:40 - 5:15. That's a BIG change for him. What is the best approach - switching him over cold turkey, no buildup? Or lets say I have a week before I start a job. I could gradually leave him longer each day. I know it's going to be hard on him. He's never even had a nap there. Any advice?

 

[KingdomHearts]

I actually teach 3 year olds at a great school. I have had some students go from half day to full day. The first week is normally the toughtest transition for them. But as long as you have caring and loving teachers your son will transition into his new routine quickly. I would try to make it a new and exciting event.... like OHH we get to go out and buy a cool new sleeping bag for school.. which one do you like, and all that jazz. Make sure you tell your son that he will be sleeping there and get him prepared for it. Good luck !

 

[Mkrop]

I agree with the pp I would make it seem as cool as possible. he is a big boy now so he gets to stay. Get a new lunch box, a new sleeping pad etc. Hype it up and then maybe reward him with a trip for ice cream or something after a week of being a big boy. My kids eat up the praise once the accomplish something.

GL

 

[lecach]

Thanks for the help. A reward is a great idea.

Do you think we should do the transition gradually or all at once? Will it be easier for him to understand if we just start full time the day I start a new job? At first I thought gradual might be better. But I am afraid that might confuse him.

 

[Suzanna1973]

I own my own daycare and I have to say...If you have the chance to do gradual....DO IT!!! Maybe let him have two days where he is there for nap time before you leave him all day permanently.

Good luck with the job....good luck with daycare transition. I like the idea of playing him up as a big boy....HE IS! He gets to go to "school" full time now!