Preparing Parents & Families

Preparing to Start

A practical guide to preparing yourself and your family for childcare - from routines and logistics to managing expectations and the emotional transition.

Is it normal to feel guilty about my child starting childcare?

Feeling guilty before your child starts childcare is extremely common. Many parents question whether they’re making the “right” decision, even when they know childcare is the best option for their family. Guilt can sit alongside relief, excitement, sadness and uncertainty all at once. It doesn’t mean you’re making a bad choice or that your child will feel unloved. More often, it reflects how significant this transition feels. As children settle into childcare and families build trust with educators and routines, those feelings often soften over time.