Many families across Alaska are returning to the workplace and making plans for child care this summer and when school resumes in the Fall. Returning to child care may bring a mix of emotions after all the uncertainty experienced during COVID-19.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you\u2019re ready, Alaska\u2019s child care programs are open and ready, taking the necessary precautions to keep your children happy and safe. Use these tips to feel confident about your decision to return to child care and make the transition easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Both you and your child may have some big feelings about returning to care after time away. Take time to listen to your child\u2019s concerns and reassure your child that it\u2019s okay to feel anxious. Consider what might help your child feel better. You may suggest your child draw a picture to give to the teacher on the first day. You could also set up a video call with your child\u2019s teacher before you return, or read books together about returning to child care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Keep your tone positive when talking about child care and try to stay upbeat when saying goodbye on the first day. Don\u2019t forget to acknowledge your own feelings and give yourself space and time to work through emotions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
More resources:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Talk with your child about what to expect at child care now that some things may have changed. There may be new teachers or smaller groups of children. You may have to pack food instead of the facility providing meals. Your child\u2019s classmates may not have returned. There may be new classroom routines and schedules.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can count on your child\u2019s teacher to help your child make a smooth transition back to their friends and classrooms. Talk through any concerns you may have about your child\u2019s safety with the teacher and program director. Reference this list to ask about safety procedures such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n More resources:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Think about what your new family routine will be like. Consider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Get back into a bedtime routine a week before you return to child care and practice your route to child care a few times. You can help your child learn the new routine by making a simple routine chart with your child using pictures. Refer to the chart or use another kind of signal, such as songs or alarms set on your phone, when it\u2019s time to transition to the next step in your routine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n More resources:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Young children may not be able to fully explain or communicate their needs or their emotions. Instead, your child may express worry, anxiety, or confusion through behavior such as irritability or aggression. Collaborate with your child\u2019s teacher and program director to support your child, and help them understand if your child has had experiences that may affect behavior, such as changes at home, food insecurity, illness, domestic violence, or trauma. Your child\u2019s teacher or program director can also provide information about community resources to help support your family. Your child\u2019s teacher is your partner in this and they are here to help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n More resources:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nExpectations<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
Routines<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
Communication<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n