It’s a day you’ve probably been dreading for some time. You may be welling up just thinking about it, and we don’t blame you. Handing your little one over to a childminder or day care centre for the first time is a big deal. It’s totally normal to feel emotional and anxious when leaving your child in someone else’s care.

If you’re struggling with the idea of parting with your little prince or princess, these survival tips should help you to cope and make the transition a little easier.

Pack the tissues

You’re never too old to cry, especially when it comes to your child. It’s perfectly natural to find it upsetting to say goodbye to your son or daughter on their first day, or even their first week. Just try to save the tears for when your little one is out of sight – this way they won’t see you get emotional, and thus become upset themselves. Be brave until you get back to your car or have left the premises, and then crack open a pack of tissues. It will get easier. We promise you.

Talk to the teachers

Make yourself feel better by chatting with the teachers before you leave. It’ll reassure you, and make you feel more confident that you’ve left your infant with someone you trust. Besides, it’s important to get to know the teachers and give them information about all the little things about your child that only you know. Great child care educators appreciate being told about what your little one prefers and enjoys.

Chat to other parents

Remember, you’re never alone when putting your kid in child care. There are plenty of other parents in exactly the same situation as you, and it helps to get to know them to remind yourself that you aren’t the only one facing this new milestone. When you make friends with other mums and dads, you can support each other through the child care process. Some centres even run events and morning tea groups, which are great for bonding with other parents.

Make plans for the day

If you’re not working on your child’s first day, make sure you’ve got some activities planned so you don’t just spend your time wallowing. It’s likely that you’ll want to sit by the phone in case a teacher calls, but this will only drive you mad. Whether you grab some lunch with a friend, go shopping or do a week’s worth of household chores, keep yourself busy. It will take your mind off things and make the time pass faster.

Be prepared for a change of mind

It’s not unusual for kids to find day care fun and exciting at first, then decide they want to be back at home with Mum and Dad after a month or two. However, this doesn’t mean that you should assume something bad has happened. Just chat with their teachers or carers about how they are feeling, and find out if they know why your child might be feeling this way. You should always be able to discuss any concerns with your child care centre staff, and expect them to offer effective solutions to any problems.

Feel more comfortable about sending your child to day care? Take a look at Yellow Page’s listings now to find great child care centres in your region.