The first time your child goes somewhere without you is a big deal. A trial day at childcare is designed to make that transition smooth and safe — but many parents aren't quite sure what to expect beforehand. In this article, we walk you through everything, so both you and your child can start that first day feeling well prepared.
What exactly is a trial day at childcare?
A trial day — also known as a settling-in day or settling-in session — is an introductory visit where your child gets to meet the group, explore the space, and get to know the childcare workers for the first time. It's not a regular childcare day, but a guided transition. Most daycare centers (kinderdagverblijf/KDV) schedule one or more trial days in the weeks leading up to the official start date.
The purpose is twofold: your child gets used to the new environment, and the staff get to know your child. How do they react to new faces? What are their favorite toys? Do they have a particular sleep routine or comfort object? All of this information helps the childcare team make your child feel safe and at home as quickly as possible.
Every childcare setting organizes the trial day a little differently. Some locations start with a short two-hour morning session; others plan a half day. Ask the childcare provider in advance how they approach it, so you know what to expect and your child isn't caught off guard.
How does a trial day at a daycare center unfold, step by step?
A trial day usually follows a set structure, though this varies by location. In general, it goes like this: you arrive together with your child, you're welcomed by a dedicated staff member, and your child gets to explore the group and the space at their own pace. Then comes the moment of saying goodbye — for many parents, the most nerve-wracking part. Read on to find out what happens at each stage.
The first hours: getting used to the group and the staff
When you arrive, it's important that your child can explore the space at their own pace. A good childcare professional won't rush in, but will make calm, gentle contact — a smile, offering a familiar toy, joining in with an activity. Your child sets the pace of the introduction.
During the first hours, the childcare professionals also actively observe: how does your child respond to other children, to noise, to unfamiliar situations? These observations are valuable for supporting your child on regular childcare days. As a parent, you're still there at the start, which gives many children a safe anchor from which to curiously explore their new surroundings.
Saying goodbye: how long do you stay as a parent?
This is the moment many parents dread. Most childcare providers have a clear guideline: keep the goodbye short and consistent. A long, hesitant farewell actually makes things harder for your child. Give them a hug, say clearly that you'll be back, and then actually leave.
How long you stay depends on your child's age and the childcare provider's approach. With babies, parents sometimes stay for the entire first trial day; with toddlers, it's common to say goodbye after about half an hour to an hour. Don't hesitate to ask the staff for advice. They've been through this countless times and know exactly what works.
What does the childcare team do for your child during the trial day?
The childcare workers are extra attentive to your child during the trial day. They make sure your child feels warmly welcomed, introduce them to the other children, and keep the daily routine as normal as possible. That familiar rhythm — eating, playing, sleeping, going outside — provides structure and helps your child understand what a day at childcare looks like.
A good childcare provider will also actively gather information. Things like: what does your child like to eat, how do they sleep, are there any allergies, what is their comfort object? Many locations use a settling-in form or intake meeting before the trial day. Make the most of this — the more the staff know about your child, the better they can respond to their needs.
Modern childcare centers also communicate with parents during the trial day through a parent app. You'll receive a photo or message while your child is playing, which gives you peace of mind and lets you see how your child is getting on when you're not there.
What can you do as a parent to help the trial day go smoothly?
Preparation at home makes a big difference. Here are some practical tips that really help:
- Talk about childcare in advance in a positive, calm way. Tell your child what they'll be doing: playing with other children, having a snack, and then you'll come to pick them up.
- Bring a comfort object, such as a stuffed animal or a pacifier. Many childcare providers allow this, especially during the settling-in period.
- Keep the morning relaxed. No rushing — wake up calmly, have a good breakfast, and leave with plenty of time to spare.
- Be honest: don't say you're just popping to the toilet if you're actually leaving. Children notice, and it undermines their trust.
- Keep your own emotions in check when saying goodbye. Children are sensitive to their parents' mood. A confident farewell sends your child the message: this is safe.
- Ask for feedback afterwards from the staff. How did it go? What stood out? This information also helps you talk things through with your child at home.
Finally: it's completely normal if the trial day doesn't go perfectly. Crying at goodbye isn't a sign that the childcare isn't right — it's a sign that your child has a strong bond with you. Most children are distracted within minutes and happily join in with the group. And if you have doubts about the childcare itself? It's always worth comparing multiple locations on Kiddie.nl, so you can be confident you're making the best choice for your child.
