Things to Consider:

Here are a few things to consider to help make your child care experience just a little easier:

Don't panic if your child cries when you leave.
It's hard for a young child to understand "I'll be back later." This comes as the child develops and learns that at the end of the day, you do come back. It may also be hard for an older child, but your child usually just needs some extra reassurance that you will return. Remember, it's usually much harder on you than your child. However if your child is still crying after a considerable amount of time, you should look further into the reaction.

Communicate.
Take time to discuss your child's day with the provider. You'll feel more connected to how your child is developing. Remember to talk to your child about the day too. He or she needs to know that you are interested.

Child care can benefit your child.
Research shows that in high quality child care, children learn to share and cooperate, develop trusting relationships, and solve problems. These are critical skills that will benefit your child through adulthood.

Quality child care isn't hard to find. You just have to know where to look. For more information on child care in your area, call 1-800-332-9227.

- New Jersey Department of Human Services

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