Holidays and Breaks from Daycare

Holidays and breaks from daycare are a natural part of family life. For many parents, it's a cozy time with more presence and calm, but for young children, changes in everyday life can also be a major upheaval. In this article, we take a closer look at what breaks from daycare mean for your child – and how you can best handle them.

Young children and the need for routines

Children of daycare age thrive best with familiarity and clear structures. Everyday life in daycare is often structured with clear routines: drop-off, meals, play, nap, and pick-up. These repetitions create security.

When the child is on holiday, these routines are broken. This can be positive – but it can also create uncertainty, especially if the changes are very sudden or extensive.

Benefits of breaks from daycare

There are many good things about taking time off from daycare:

• More time with parents: The child gets extra closeness and attention.

• Calm and fewer impressions: Some children benefit from a break from a busy everyday life.

• Strengthened relationship: Holidays provide an opportunity to immerse yourselves in spending time together.

Challenges of holidays

Although holidays are cozy, they can also present challenges:

• Changed routines can make the child restless or more fussy.

• The sleep rhythm can be affected.

• Restarting at daycare can be difficult after longer breaks.

Especially after summer holidays or long periods of illness, some children experience a kind of "mini-re-settling" again.

Expect an adaptation period

Both at the start of the holiday and upon returning to daycare, there is typically a transition period. The first few days can be a bit chaotic while the child finds their footing in the new circumstances.

Be prepared and be patient. Your child is processing the change as best they can. With your support and understanding, they will get through it.

When the holiday is over

Returning to daycare after a holiday can resemble a mini-version of the original start. Some children take it very calmly, while others react with crying and protest.

Prepare your child for the fact that the holiday will soon be over. Talk about how they will soon see their friends again, that the educators are waiting for them. Make it something positive to look forward to, without forcing enthusiasm upon them.

The first day after the holiday can be tough. Your child has become used to having you all the time, and now they suddenly have to do without you again. Allow extra time for the farewell, but keep it short and loving.

Expect it to take a few days before everyday life feels normal again. That's perfectly fine. Your child is rebuilding their sense of security at daycare, and it will take as long as it takes.

Summer holidays and closure days

Many daycares close for parts of the summer holidays or have closure days during the year. Plan well in advance how you will handle these periods.

Despite the transition challenges, holidays and breaks are valuable. They give you time together as a family, the opportunity to experience new things, and a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.