Fact sheet · Work and childcare
Our drop-off and reconnection plan
Fill this in together with your partner or co-parent, then share the educator notes with your child’s carers so everyone does the same thing. Keep goodbyes short, the same every time, and final.
Type straight into the boxes, then print or save as a PDF, or print it blank and use a pen.
1. The night before
Simple, predictable steps.
If they’re upset at goodbye: “I’ll give you a big cuddle, then I need to go. ________ will look after you.” Then I leave, and I don’t come back in, not even for a forgotten hat.
2. Our goodbye ritual
Under a minute. The same every time. Then go.
3. Notes for our educators
The more they know, the faster they can comfort your child.
4. My plan for after I leave
5. Pick-up and reunion
Meltdowns at pick-up are common. They’re safe with you.
6. Settling-in log: the first two weeks
A few words a day. Look for the trend, not the perfect morning.
| Day | Goodbye | Pick-up | How I felt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mon | |||
| Tue | |||
| Wed | |||
| Thu | |||
| Fri |
| Day | Goodbye | Pick-up | How I felt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mon | |||
| Tue | |||
| Wed | |||
| Thu | |||
| Fri |
Check in after two or three weeks. If your child’s distress isn’t easing over several weeks, or you’re finding it hard to cope, talk with the educators, your GP or child health nurse, or a psychologist. PANDA 1300 726 306. In an emergency, call 000.