The return to childcare after the holidays often arrives quietly, and yet it can stir up more emotion than we expect.
After weeks of slower mornings, familiar rhythms and extra time together, even the most confident families can feel a pause at the gate. A moment of hesitation. A deeper breath before saying goodbye.
If you’ve felt that, even briefly, you’re not alone.
For many children and parents, returning to childcare isn’t just a change in routine. It’s a transition of the heart as well.
Why returning can feel different after time away
Holidays tend to soften the pace of life. Days unfold gently. Parents are close by. Children move through their world with familiarity and comfort.
Returning to childcare, even a place your child knows and enjoys, asks them to shift again. To re-engage socially, to follow a busier rhythm, and to spend longer stretches away from home.
For parents, this transition can bring its own quiet emotions. After time spent together, the act of letting go again, even temporarily, can feel unexpectedly tender.
This doesn’t mean your child isn’t ready. It doesn’t mean the transition is wrong. It simply means change takes time.
What settling back in can look like for young children
As children reconnect with routine, you may notice subtle changes.
Some children linger longer at drop-off, needing an extra moment of reassurance. Others arrive home more tired than usual, or seek closeness in the afternoons. Preschoolers may ask thoughtful questions or revisit familiar comfort routines.
These responses are not setbacks, they’re signs of adjustment. Often, they reflect a child who feels safe enough to express what they’re feeling.
If you’d like further guidance, Papilio’s settling in guide offers gentle, practical ways to support children during periods of transition.
Ways to support a smooth, reassuring transition
Transitions don’t need to be rushed. Small, thoughtful practices can make a meaningful difference.
- Create calm, predictable goodbyes: Children take cues from us. A steady, reassuring goodbye, even when emotions surface, helps them feel secure and supported.
- Speak warmly about the day ahead: Simple, confident language about educators, friends and familiar activities builds trust and anticipation.
- Ease back into routine: Regular mornings and restful evenings help children regain their sense of rhythm and balance.
- Allow space for reconnection: After a full day of learning and social engagement, children often need quiet moments with you, reading together, gentle play, or simply being close.
And for parents, give yourself grace. These transitions can stir feelings because they matter.
How Papilio supports children through change
At Papilio, we understand that transitions are deeply individual.
Our educators approach the start of the year with attentiveness and care, observing closely, offering reassurance, and allowing each child the time and space they need to reconnect.
This may look like a familiar educator greeting your child each morning, revisiting favourite activities, or providing quiet moments of connection as confidence rebuilds.
By honouring each child’s pace, we create an environment where children feel safe, understood and ready to engage.
A gentle reflection for parents
Some days will feel light and easy. Others may feel slower, even after a positive day.
Both are part of learning how to navigate change.
If you ever wish to talk through how your child is settling, your Papilio team is always available, or you can find your local centre here:
Find a Papilio centre near you
Your child is learning something meaningful right now, how to adapt, trust, and move confidently between the worlds they love.
And you’re supporting that learning simply by staying present, consistent, and compassionate, even when it feels tender.
You’re doing beautifully!