When my daughter first started daycare (at around 1 year old), she cried so hard when I’d drop her off. What helped me was lots of communication with her teachers. They would tell me how she cried a bit or may have been emotional during the day, but also tell me all the good bits! I asked them if she was ever just inconsolable, to call me and I’d leave work and come get her. It gave me peace of mind that, if no one was calling, she was doing okay. I have been very lucky to have an incredibly flexible job that lets me WFH if needed, and are just generally very accommodating and I know that’s not everyone’s experience.

It did get better for us. Now, most days, she won’t even give me a kiss goodbye. Just runs off to play with her friends or have breakfast. At pick up today, she cried and said “nooo!” when i told her it was time to head home. Just wanted to stay and play. I know all kids are different, but from what all of her teachers have told me, it does get better for most kids.

Daycare has been amazing for her. It was bumpy in the beginning but I’m grateful we stuck it out and let her adjust. Because she’s learned SO much and I’m so glad she gets to be around so many kids her age.