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Daycare Settling-in: Phases, Tips & Models

Daycare settling-in is the structured transition process that helps young children gradually adapt to a new childcare environment with parental support.

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Things worth knowing about "Daycare Settling-in"

Daycare settling-in is the structured transition process that helps young children gradually adapt to a new childcare environment with parental support.

What Is Daycare Settling-in?

Daycare settling-in refers to the structured, step-by-step process through which young children are gently introduced to a new childcare setting – such as a nursery or daycare center. The goal is to make the transition from the familiar home environment to group care as smooth and stress-free as possible. This phase is developmentally significant because children between the ages of approximately six months and three years form particularly strong attachments to their primary caregivers.

Importance for Child Health and Development

A successful settling-in process has been shown to have positive effects on the psychological well-being and social development of young children. Children who are gradually and supportively settled into daycare show fewer stress responses, such as elevated cortisol levels, sleep disturbances, or behavioral changes. In contrast, an abrupt separation from a caregiver without adequate preparation can lead to prolonged stress and emotional difficulties.

Common Settling-in Models

Berlin Settling-in Model

The Berlin Model is the most widely used settling-in approach in Germany. Developed in the 1990s based on John Bowlby's attachment theory, it involves a settling-in period of approximately two to four weeks, divided into three phases:

Foundation phase (approx. 3 days): A parent and child visit the daycare together for one to two hours per day. The child explores the new environment using the caregiver as a secure base.
First separation attempts (from day 4): Short separations of around 30 minutes are introduced. If the child remains calm, the separation time is gradually extended.
Stabilization phase: Care time is extended. The childcare worker becomes a new, reliable attachment figure. Settling-in is considered complete when the child can be comforted by the educator.

Munich Settling-in Model

The Munich Model places particular emphasis on observing the individual signals of the child and fostering close collaboration between parents and childcare professionals. The duration of settling-in is tailored even more closely to the needs of each individual child.

Process and Practical Tips for Parents

Parents play a central role during the settling-in process. The following guidance can help support a positive transition:

Keep goodbyes clear and brief: A consistent and loving farewell ritual gives children a sense of security. Sneaking away or hesitating can increase a child's anxiety.
Bring a familiar object: A soft toy or comfort item from home can serve as an emotional anchor in the new environment.
Signal reliability: Parents should arrive punctually at pick-up time to help the child build trust in the new routine.
Reflect on your own emotions: Many parents find separations emotionally challenging. It is important not to transfer this anxiety to the child.
Accept setbacks: It is normal for children to need an additional adjustment period after illness or holidays.

Common Challenges

Not every settling-in process goes smoothly. Common difficulties include:

Persistent crying at drop-off
Refusing to eat or sleep at the daycare
Regression in toilet training or language development
Sleep disturbances or behavioral changes at home

These reactions are typically temporary and are considered normal responses to adjustment. If problems persist or are particularly intense, consultation with a pediatrician or child psychologist is recommended.

When to Seek Medical or Psychological Advice

If a child shows intense stress responses over several weeks – such as weight loss, persistent sleep disturbances, regression (e.g., bedwetting after achieving dryness), or significant behavioral changes – it is advisable to consult a pediatrician and, if necessary, a child psychologist. In rare cases, a prolonged or interrupted settling-in period may be necessary for the well-being of the child.

References

Laewen, H.-J., Andres, B. & Hédervari, É. (2011): The First Days – A Model for Settling-in in Nurseries and Family Day Care. Cornelsen Verlag.
Datler, W., Ereky-Stevens, K. & Hover-Reisner, N. (2010): Children under three in daycare – settling-in and well-being. In: Early Childhood Education and Care. Juventa Verlag.
Bowlby, J. (1988): A Secure Base: Parent-Child Attachment and Healthy Human Development. Basic Books.

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