Choosing the right daycare can feel overwhelming—especially when it’s your first time. As a mum of seven children, and the owner of Miri’s Kindy, a trusted daycare centre in Coogee, I’ve seen it all: from teary first drop-offs to the joy of a child’s first finger painting.
Whether you’re just starting to explore childcare options or you’re preparing for your little one’s first day, I hope my experience—both as a parent and an early childhood educator—helps guide you through this exciting and emotional time.
How to Help Your Child Settle into Daycare (With Fewer Tears!)
Starting daycare is a big step. And yes, sometimes the tears are yours as much as your child’s (I’ve cried in the car many times—even with my seventh!).
Here are some gentle, effective strategies we use at Miri’s Kindy Coogee to make the transition easier:
✅ Try “Practice Runs”
In the days leading up to your child’s start, talk about daycare in positive terms. Drive past the centre, and—if your chosen daycare offers them—book a couple of orientation sessions or “stay and play” visits. We offer these at Miri’s Kindy to help families feel at ease in the space.
✅ Keep Goodbyes Short and Sweet
A brief and loving goodbye helps more than a drawn-out one. Try a consistent “goodbye ritual”—like a special hug, high-five, or phrase—to give your child a sense of predictability and comfort.
✅ Bring Something from Home
A soft toy, favourite blanket, or family photo can provide emotional security and make the environment feel more familiar.
✅ Communicate with Educators
Every child is different. Let your daycare educators know what soothes your child or what their morning routine looks like. At Miri’s Kindy, we work closely with families to understand each child’s needs and preferences.
And remember: it’s completely normal for children to cry during drop-off. Most settle within minutes and are soon engaged in play and learning.
What to Look for in a Childcare Centre (From a Mum Who Runs One!)
When I first toured daycares as a new mum, I didn’t know what to look for—just that I wanted my child to be happy and safe. Now, with years of experience running Miri’s Kindy Coogee, I can share exactly what matters most when choosing a childcare centre:
🌟 Warmth Over Shiny Furniture
Gorgeous facilities are great, but what’s more important is how educators interact with children. Are they down on the floor, engaging with kids, making eye contact, using names? This connection matters more than anything else.
🌟 Safety and Cleanliness
Trust your instincts. Look for cleanliness, securely latched gates, and safe play areas. If something wouldn’t be good enough for my child, it’s not good enough for anyone’s.
🌟 A Balanced Daily Routine
A good centre offers a mix of free play, structured learning, rest, outdoor time, and meals—while staying flexible to the needs of the children. Ask to see a sample day plan when you visit.
🌟 Clear Communication
Look for a centre that keeps you in the loop. Whether it’s updates via an app, messages, or face-to-face chats at pickup—you deserve to know how your child’s day is going. At Miri’s Kindy, transparency is at the heart of everything we do.
When you walk into a centre, listen to your gut. Does it feel nurturing? Is your child acknowledged, not just you? That’s when you know you’ve found the right place.
3 Reasons Why Daycare Is a Gift for Your Child’s Development
Worried about whether your child is ready for daycare? You’re not alone. Many parents wonder if it’s better to wait. But after seeing hundreds of children thrive at Miri’s Kindy, I can tell you this: great childcare helps children grow in powerful, beautiful ways.
Here’s why:
1. Social Skills Soar
Daycare gives children the chance to learn how to share, wait, cooperate, and communicate with peers in a safe environment. My youngest came out of his shell within weeks of being around other toddlers.
2. Confidence and Independence Bloom
Whether it’s solving a disagreement over a toy or proudly showing off their artwork, children develop a sense of pride, identity, and self-esteem in group settings.
3. Learning Through Play Happens Naturally
At Miri’s Kindy, we follow the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), which guides us in supporting learning through exploration, curiosity, and fun. From pouring water to building with blocks, every activity is an opportunity for early literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving.
Visit Miri’s Kindy Coogee – A Home Away From Home
Located in the heart of Coogee in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, Miri’s Kindy is a warm, family-owned daycare centre where children feel safe, seen, and supported every single day.
We know what it’s like to hand your child over for the first time—and we’re here to make sure that moment is filled with trust, connection, and care.
📍 Come visit us and see the difference a nurturing, experienced team can make.
Book a tour of Miri’s Kindy Coogee today, and let’s make your child’s daycare journey a joyful one.
Miri’s Kindy
Email: info@miriskindy.com.au
Web: www.miriskindy.com.au
Phone/Whatsapp : 0411 743 783
Facebook: facebook.com/MirisKindy
Instagram: miris_kindy
Address: 121 Brook St, Coogee, 2034
Navigating the World of Daycare: A Mum/ Providers Guide to Finding the Right Fit
