Starting day care in Arlington, VA, is one of those exciting milestones that signals your child is ready to explore a bigger world: one filled with discovery, play, and new friendships. For parents, it’s a moment that can bring both pride and a touch of nerves. At Celebree School of National Landing, we understand that this change is as emotional for parents as it is for children.
Our goal is to make your family’s transition smooth and joyful. Here, day care is more than a place for care. It’s a community built on compassion, trust, and growth. Every day, your child will be encouraged to explore, learn, and connect in a nurturing, safe, and engaging environment.
Navigating the Emotional Side of Starting Day Care
Change can feel big, especially for little ones. New routines, faces, and surroundings can take time to get used to. Some children adapt easily, while others need a little extra reassurance. No matter where your child falls on that spectrum, our experienced teachers are here to guide them with patience and empathy.
Here’s how you can help at home:
- Show excitement. Talk positively about their new school. Let your child know you’re proud and confident in them. It helps them feel the same way.
- Acknowledge their feelings. It’s natural for children to feel unsure at first. Offer gentle reassurance: “It’s okay to feel nervous. Your teachers will take great care of you, and you’ll make lots of new friends.”
- Practice routines. Start adjusting bedtime, wake-up time, and morning routines a week or two before the first day.
- Connect early. Attend open houses or classroom visits at Celebree School of National Landing. Meeting teachers and exploring the space together helps your child feel comfortable faster.
Every child’s transition is unique, and that’s okay. With warmth, consistency, and communication, most little ones soon settle in and even look forward to coming each day.
Getting Ready for the First Day: What to Bring
A little preparation goes a long way toward helping that first day feel smooth and stress-free. Here’s a simple checklist of what your child will need, organized by age group for convenience.
Infants
- Three sets of extra clothes (including socks)
- Crib sheets (pack-and-play size, optional)
- Diapers, wipes, and diaper cream
- Bottles (one per feeding, pre-mixed if using formula, labeled with first and last name, contents, and date)
- Formula, breast milk, or food
- Bibs
- Pacifier (optional)
Toddlers
- One or more sets of extra clothes (more if potty training)
- Crib sheet and blanket for nap time
- Diapers, pull-ups, and wipes
- Lunch (labeled with your child’s first and last name)
- Sippy cups (one for each meal, labeled)
Twos and Preschool Classes
- One or more sets of extra clothes (especially if potty training)
- Crib sheet and blanket for nap time
- Diapers, pull-ups, and wipes (if applicable)
- Lunch (clearly labeled with your child’s first and last name)
Reminder: Please ensure every item is labeled with your child’s first and last name. It helps our teachers keep everything organized and ensures your child’s belongings are returned safely each day.
What Makes Celebree School of National Landing Special
At Celebree School of National Landing, we believe that learning should feel like an adventure full of joy, curiosity, and connection. Our curriculum blends academic exploration with meaningful social interaction, helping children build confidence and kindness alongside early literacy, math, and problem-solving skills.
We focus on the whole child, nurturing not only cognitive development but also emotional resilience and social growth. Through play, conversation, and collaboration, children learn how to express feelings, make friends, and care for one another all within a warm, inclusive community that feels like family.
And for parents? You’ll always feel in the loop. From daily communication to progress updates, we partner with families every step of the way.
Looking Ahead With Confidence
Preparing for day care is a journey of trust and growth, for your child and for you. With a bit of planning, lots of love, and the support of the dedicated team at Celebree School of National Landing, you can look forward to a smooth and joyful start.
We can’t wait to welcome your family and watch your child blossom because at Celebree, every child’s potential shines bright.
