Starting creche is a big change for the whole family. A little preparation makes the first weeks a lot smoother.
When to start settling-in visits
Most Irish creches offer 1–2 weeks of phased visits before your official start date. Start with short 1–2 hour visits and build up. Take them seriously — this is when the settling actually happens.
Build a morning routine early
Two weeks before, start waking, dressing and eating breakfast at your future creche time. Kids settle faster when the routine is already familiar.
What to pack for creche
- 2 full changes of clothes (more for a toddler potty-training)
- Nappies, wipes, barrier cream (for babies/toddlers)
- Sun cream, sun hat, weather-appropriate outerwear
- Bottles/formula/breastmilk, labelled
- Comfort item — muslin, small teddy, or a T-shirt that smells of home
- Named indoor shoes and outdoor shoes
Handling separation anxiety
Say a short, cheerful goodbye and leave. Long goodbyes make it worse. The staff will call you within 20 minutes if your child hasn't settled — but 9 times out of 10 they have.
What the first week looks like
Expect early pick-ups, tears (yours and theirs), a couple of sniffles, and a very tired child at 5pm. All completely normal.
How long settling takes
Most babies and toddlers settle in 2–3 weeks. Some take a full term. Trust the key worker's read on it.
Tips from Irish creche managers
- Bring the comfort item in a clear bag — staff can spot it fast.
- Don't stop for a big goodbye at the window afterwards; walk away.
- Keep evenings calm — kids are shattered by the new stimulation.
Still struggling after 2 weeks?
Talk to the key worker. Sometimes a room change, an earlier pick-up, or a tweak to the drop-off routine is all it takes.