How to help a child adjust to being in a daycare center?

Question

There is a 3yr old boy whose been in our center for 2 weeks now. He does not cry in the morning when his mother drops him off and is very excited in the evening when she picks him up. He still seems to be having trouble with our daily routine. He is very slow to join the other children in the morning circle time and is also slow to transition from one activity to the next. He also seems to have trouble with rest time. Any suggestions on how to help this child adjust.

Answer 1

2 weeks is not a very long time - let him go at his own pace - it will be much less stressful for him and be worth it in the end.

Answer 2

Time is the best answer, however, if he does not improve it may be that at the end of the year he will not be emotionally/physically ready for kindergarden. He may just not be at that level of maturity. Watch for signs of learning disabilaties also.

Answer 3

Time. Most young children have an extended time of adjustment. To move things along try to be as encouraging as possible, let the child know they are welcome for every activity. The child must feel comfortable in there surroundings.

Answer 4

Yes, I agree...time...patience...understanding....  This is probably his first experience and probably very different from what is going on at home.  Remember that observation is considered participation in these early years.  

Rest time:  does he have something small from home he could bring in?  

Good luck.