Four- and Five-Year-Olds

Please believe me when I say that no one will think anything is 'wrong' when your child doesn't want to go home with you at that moment. I am a day care provider, and several of my day care children do this when their parents come to pick their child up. It is all about transition. It is really difficult sometimes for kids to make transitions in their day.

Here is some advice that has worked for my day care parents. Try starting a ritual that you and your child do together right after day care. Whether it is singing along to a special cd in the car, making dinner together when you get home, or even having a special toy or game that stays right in the car for the ride home. Remind your child of that special activity at pickup. Also, if possible have the DCP let the child know 10 minutes before you pick up, then 5 minutes before, 3 minutes before, etc., so that can help your child transition a little easier.

Good luck!