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Hellos and GoodbyesTips to Ease the Anxiety of Your
Daily Hello and Good-Bye Routine
Saying good-bye at the beginning of the day and hello when you return is an important ritual that helps children learn how to separate and reunite with important people in their lives.

Here are some tips to help these daily transitions go smoother:

 

Take Five_1Spend time with your child each morning and afternoon. Spending just a few minutes with them in the child care setting will help make the transistion between home and away easier.

 

Take Five_2Always say good-bye. Saying good-bye, rather than just "disappearing", will strengthen your child's trust in you.

 

 

Create a hello/good-bye ritual. Simple rituals, such as giving your child a big hug before you leave, will help you and your child know what to expect as you leave and return.

 

Take Five_4Bring in family photos or other items from home.  Seeing these special objects will help your child feel connected to you throughout the day.

 

Take Five_5Be aware that some days will be "bumpier" than others. Good-byes and hellos can stir up deep feelings. Your child's stage of development and factors such as being tired or hungry can make transitions more difficult on certain days.

 

By working together with your child care provider, you can help your child feel comfortable and secure as they transistion between home and away.

Hello and Good-byesHello and Good-bye Activity Ideas

Try these easy, age-appropriate activities that will help children model conversations and gain an understanding of relationships. 

  • Hi and Bye-Bye
  • Tell Family Stories
  • Mailing a Letter

Download Activities

Quick Links

Q. My daughter screams when I leave her at child care. Sometimes, I'm not even sure the staff notice I've dropped her off. I feel guilty all day. What should I do?
A.  Talk with your child care provider and come up with a plan together to help make your morning and evening  transitions go smoother.   Here are some ideas for you and your child care provider to discuss.