The daycare settling-in period marks an important developmental milestone for both your child and you as parents. Your child will discover new spaces, new people, and new daily routines. For many children, this step is exciting and enjoyable. However, it is also common for both children and parents to experience uncertainty and mixed emotions when starting nursery or preschool.
While children get to know their new caregivers at daycare, parents also go through an important learning process. Trust does not develop overnight. Letting go does not mean losing closeness—it means giving your child the opportunity to gain new experiences. A well-planned daycare settling-in period supports this transition. Early childhood educators guide both children and parents through this phase with care and sensitivity.
At cocon Daycare Centre, our educators understand the concerns families may have. We support you and your child step by step through this new chapter of life. Our goal is for every child to feel safe, valued, and secure in our care. We provide the time children need to settle in and the sense of security they need to grow.
Here, you can learn how the daycare settling-in process works at cocon.
Why Is a Good Settling-In Period So Important?
For a young child, a new environment can feel overwhelming. Too many changes at once may quickly become stressful. A gentle introduction to daycare helps reduce frustration and uncertainty. Familiar routines give your child a sense of security and make it easier to cope with being separated from their primary caregiver.
A successful daycare settling-in period has a lasting impact on your child’s daycare experience. Children find their place within the group more easily and develop confidence for future life transitions. Positive early experiences during major developmental milestones also make later transitions, such as starting school, easier.
Daycare Settling-In: How Long Does It Take?
What Models Are Used for the Daycare Settling-In Process?
Here is an overview of the most common daycare settling-in models:
Berlin Model: This approach uses a gradual separation process between child and parent. At first, one parent remains with the child as a secure base within the group. Only once the child begins to build trust are short separation periods introduced, gradually becoming longer. This method is particularly beneficial for children who need more time to adapt to new situations.
Munich Model: This approach focuses on experiencing everyday daycare life together. Children explore the rooms, play materials, and daily routines alongside their parents and educators. The settling-in process develops through observation, play, and gentle encouragement to engage in social interactions.
Many daycare centres base their settling-in process on the Berlin Model. At cocon, we also incorporate proven elements of these approaches while always tailoring the process to the individual needs of each child.
The Berlin Model in Focus
The Berlin Model Settling-In Process
Initial Phase
Parents usually stay with their child for one to two hours. From the second day onwards, the accompanying parent gradually takes a step back. The goal is for the child to initiate contact with the caregiver independently. Playing with the caregiver and other children helps build trust over time.
Separation Phase
The first separation usually lasts around 30 minutes if the child remains calm. If your child becomes unsettled, the educators provide comfort and support.
Stabilisation Phase
This phase is highly individual. If your child shows signs of significant stress, they are given more time to build trust and feel secure. Every step is guided by your child’s well-being.
Final Phase
In most cases, the Berlin Model settling-in process takes around three weeks, although some children require additional time.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Berlin Model
Advantages:
- Parents have a clear understanding of the settling-in process.
- The method provides a gradual and gentle introduction to new caregivers.
- The duration can be adapted flexibly to the child’s needs.
Disadvantages:
- The process requires a greater time commitment from families than quicker approaches.
- Children attending daycare part-time may need a longer settling-in period.
When the Daycare Settling-In Process Does Not Go as Expected
Some children cry when separated from their parents. Others become withdrawn or restless in the group setting. The settling-in process requires patience from everyone involved.
Time pressure often makes the situation more challenging. Separating too quickly can create additional stress. Educators carefully observe your child’s behaviour and adjust the process accordingly.
What Parents Can Do
Fear and tears are normal reactions to new situations. Show understanding for your child’s emotions and reassure them that you will return.
Talk regularly with the educators about your observations. Open communication and shared reflection help support a successful settling-in process.
Practical Tips for a Successful Daycare Settling-In Period
Support at home and at daycare helps your child adapt to their new environment. The following simple measures can make the process easier:
- Allow plenty of time for the settling-in period. Rushing makes it harder for your child to build trust.
- Say goodbye to your child calmly and consistently. Familiar routines are helpful.
- Let your child bring a familiar comfort item from home. A favourite toy can help them feel more secure.
- Observe your child’s behaviour and communicate with the educators. Working together leads to a smoother process.
- Be patient if the adjustment takes longer than expected.
Our Approach at cocon
Gentle Settling-In at cocon Daycare Centre: Individual and Relationship-Based
Building strong relationships is at the heart of our approach. Children are encouraged to explore new spaces at their own pace. Playing, observing, and sharing experiences help them build trust in both the group and the educators.
During the first phase of the settling-in period, parents remain the child’s most important caregivers. Our educators gradually become trusted figures in your child’s life, creating a gentle transition into daycare.
Feel free to contact us with any questions about the daycare settling-in process.
The Transition from Nursery to Preschool at cocon
During the transition, children also take part in shared activities with the preschool group. One example is our weekly “KigaClub”, where children explore topics such as colours, shapes, and body awareness through play.
You can find many more interesting articles about preschool, nursery care, and childcare on our blog.
FAQ – Daycare Settling-In Period
How Long Does the Daycare Settling-In Period Take?
The duration depends on the individual child and their personality. In most cases, it takes between two and four weeks. Some children need more time, while others adjust more quickly.
What Does a Good Settling-In Process Look Like?
A successful settling-in process begins with your child gradually getting to know the other children and the educators. Parents accompany their child to daycare at first, and separation periods begin only once the child feels secure.
What Settling-In Models Are Used in Daycare?
The best-known approaches are the Berlin Model, the Munich Model, and the Tübingen Model.
When Should the Daycare Settling-In Process Be Adjusted?
If a child remains overwhelmed or highly stressed over a longer period, it may be helpful to adapt the process. Parents and educators should decide together on the best next steps.
When Does the First Separation Take Place?
The first separation usually takes place after a few days. In the Berlin Model, it generally occurs on the fourth day. As the process continues, the educators gradually extend the separation periods.
