Finding a childminder for your little one can be a daunting task as you try to ensure the person is suitable, friendly and on the same wavelength as you when it comes to parenting. However, one of the hardest parts is introducing your big kid to their minder without them becoming stressed or upset, especially if you are returning to work after being at home with them for a long time.
When you are bringing a minder into your little one's life, try these steps to make the process a little smoother:
Involve them in the decision
When you are choosing a childminder, try to involve your little one in the process. While they certainly won’t have the final say in who you choose, they should at least be asked who they like.
Introduce the minder slowly
Try to introduce the minder to your child gradually. If possible, arrange short visits, such as an hour at the weekend. Gradually you should make the visits longer. This way, when it comes to leaving your child with them for long periods of time, they will already be familiar and feel comfortable around them. Doing it gradually is also a great way to see whether the two will actually get on before fully committing.
Talk to them and listen
Try to get your little one excited about their new childminder. Talk about trips that they will go on and fun things that the minder will do with them like arts and crafts and baking, but listen to their fears. Don’t just ignore any worries that your little one might have, they won’t go away and will just make your son or daughter feel a lot more negative towards the minder.
Explain why you need to get a minder
One of the main reasons that your child might not take to their minder is usually down to the fact that they don’t want you to leave them. So, to help ease their worries, explain to your little one about why you need to get a childminder in the first place, for instance that you have to go back to work.
Consistency is key
Children are not fans of change and when their routine is interrupted they can feel a little put out so try to maintain as much consistency as possible. Talk to the childminder about how you parent, including ways you discipline so that your little one won’t become confused by different styles of parenting.