Benefits of Starting Daycare Early
- Better skills and easier transitions
- Better language, social, and motor skills
- Aids behavioral development and socialization
Signs a Baby is Ready for Daycare
- Curiosity and readiness to explore and interact
- Typically calm child without separation anxiety
- Ability to handle some independence
Expert Opinions on the Best Age for Daycare
- Consider age range from 6 months to around 2 or 3 years old
- Ideal for social and emotional development
Ideal Age to Start Daycare
Experts recommend 12 months as the ideal age to send a child to daycare.
Decision-Making Factors for Daycare
- Child’s needs
- Family’s circumstances
- Availability of quality daycare centers
How to Keep Your Baby Healthy at Daycare
- Start daycare at least at 12 months old
- Consider child’s readiness for daycare
- Focus on emotional and prosocial development
Considerations for Daycare Start
- Avoid starting daycare too early
- Choose nurturing daycare setting
Starting Daycare for Toddlers
- Watch toddlers closely
- Do not have toddlers spend entire days in daycare
Alternative Care Options for Babies
- Consider home care or nanny until baby is old enough for daycare