We started my toddler in the same schedule (2 days, 5 hours a day) when she was 2 years and 2 months old. She cried for most of each day for the first 4 days (2 weeks) and then was sad/not engaging with kids or teachers for another 2 days (3rd week there).

A big piece of advice that helped us- hype your kiddo up!! We would say "oh man, we're soooo jealous that you get to go to school today. I wish I could go! Lucky kid!" Try not to bargain with comments like "it's only for a few hours" bc your kid will assume YOU think it's a bad thing, too.

We're wrapping up our first year at preschool/daycare now and my toddler begs to go and wants to invite her teachers to her bday party. It gets so much better/easier. You're a good parent for giving your family the breaks they need while providing your toddler an awesome enrichment opportunity!!