The first week with a new person in your home is new for everyone: for your child, for you, and for the caregiver herself. A little preparation makes it much easier. These are what we recommend to every family, along with what pediatric organizations suggest.

1. An introduction before the first day

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a visit from the caregiver while you are at home, before regular work begins. Your child sees the new person in a familiar space and with you by their side, and the caregiver gets to know your child and their routines before being alone with them.

2. A home tour

Show her where everything is: diapers and clothes, food and your child's dishes, toys and books, the medicine cabinet and first aid kit, keys, the stroller. Tell her which rooms or cupboards she doesn't need to open, and how the alarm, intercom and air conditioning work. A caregiver who isn't searching for things can focus her full attention on your child.

3. Everything your child loves, on one page

Write it down, even if you'll tell her verbally too:

  • the daily routine: sleep times, meals, walks, activities
  • how she falls asleep: the lullaby, the favorite toy, the light that stays on
  • what she eats, what she doesn't eat, and any allergies
  • her favorite toys, books and songs
  • what calms her when she's upset
  • the house rules: screens, sweets, visitors

The AAP is clear on one point: the caregiver does not give your child any medicine or food that you as parents have not approved. So write clearly what is allowed.

4. Phone numbers and address

The list recommended by the AAP for every caregiver includes parents' mobile numbers, a neighbor, the pediatrician, emergency numbers, the Poison Center and your home address. In Greece: 112 for any emergency, 166 for EKAB and 210 7793777 for the Poison Center, which operates 24 hours a day.

5. Together at first, then gradually

The British parents organization NCT advises introducing your child to the person who will care for them through short separations for practice, after you've spent time together at home while you're present. The NHS suggests starting with a few minutes, for example a quick walk to the neighborhood shop, and gradually increasing the time. Avoid the first separation when your child is tired or hungry.

6. Give them time alone together

Chemistry isn't built with you watching every move. Once your child has started to settle in, go to another room or step out for a bit and let the caregiver lead the play in her own way. It's the fastest path to making the new person feel familiar. As NCT writes, trust that the person you're leaving your child with can care for them.

7. A brief, consistent goodbye

Don't slip away quietly. According to NCT, if you sneak out without being seen, the next separation will be harder, and ZERO TO THREE explains that your child starts to worry that you might disappear at any moment. Say goodbye with a smile and confidence, because your child picks up on your tension, and do the same small ritual every day. An object that reminds her of you, a photo or the favorite toy, also helps.

8. Same rules and a few minutes of updates each day

A child feels safe when boundaries are the same with whoever they're with. Agree on the basic rules from the start and both of you stick to them. At the end of each day, five minutes talking about how she ate, how much she slept and what she did makes a huge difference. And when something changes at home, a move, a new sibling, an illness, let the caregiver know so she can also help your child manage it.

Give it time

Some children embrace their new caregiver from day one, others need a few weeks. Both are normal. If anything concerns you, talk to us. At Kindora we continue to be by your side even after placement.

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