How to Prepare Yourself Mentally for Daycare as Parents

Because before your baby is ready, mama, your heart needs to be ready too.

The End of Maternity Leave: A New Chapter Begins

If you live in a country like Canada, you are probably wondering where that one year of maternity leave went. One minute, you are rocking your newborn to sleep, and the next, you are counting down to your first day of daycare and a new chapter as a working mom.

And for moms in countries where maternity leave is only about three months, I honestly cannot imagine how hard that must be. Returning to work so soon after giving birth is a huge adjustment, but I believe these faith-based tips and gentle reminders will help you, too.

Let’s be honest. Some moms are ready to return to work, and others wish maternity leave could last forever. Either way, unless you are a stay-at-home mom, daycare will likely be part of your journey, especially if you do not have family or extra help nearby.

For moms who choose to stay home, I truly salute you. Many wish they could, but few are bold enough to take that path.

Daycare: A Necessary Bridge

So, how do you navigate daycare with peace?

I like to think of daycare as a necessary bridge, one that carries your child from the comfort of your arms into a new environment filled with learning, fun activities, and new friendships.

Our Daycare Journey

When my son was 11 months old, I placed him in daycare, knowing I would soon return to work. It was not easy.

Daycare spots in Canada are limited, and even after registering at four months old, the waitlists were long. When the government introduced the daycare subsidy program (reducing costs from about $28 to a target of $10 per day), spaces became even tighter.

By eight months, I began exploring home daycares — smaller, licensed settings with fewer children and more personal care.

I prayed, visited a few homes, and finally met one provider who felt right. She was not from my race or religion, but she treated my son like her own. Looking back, it was one of the best decisions I made.

Before your baby can adjust to daycare, you need to prepare your heart. Here are five faith-filled ways to do that.

5 Faith-Based Tips for Moms Starting Daycare

1. Know that God Is the Real Caretaker

As much as you love your child, you cannot be everywhere. But God can.
He watches over your little one during snack time, nap time, and playtime.

“The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” — Psalm 121:8

When you rest in this truth, daycare no longer feels like separation; it becomes a partnership between your love and God’s protection

2. Tell Your Fears to God (Pray, Pray, Pray!)

Before you even start the daycare search, take your fears to God.
Be honest. Tell him exactly what you are afraid of, whether it is your child adjusting to a new environment, separation anxiety, or safety worries.

Do not hold back; God already knows. As you pray, you release fear and make space for peace.

“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)

3. Do Your Research — But Stay Spirit-Led

Read reviews, ask questions, and visit a few childcare centers or home daycare providers.
However, remember that not every story you hear will be your own. Some people have had challenging experiences and may project their fears onto you.

Be prayerful as you research. When you are in tune with God, you will feel His conviction and peace guiding you toward the right place for your family.

“Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, ‘This is the way, walk in it.’” (Isaiah 30:21)

4. Give Yourself Grace

This is a big step, and it is okay to feel emotional. There will be tears, and that is normal.
Do not expect to have it all together right away. Take small steps and remind yourself that you are growing, too.

Each drop-off gets a little easier, and soon you will see your child thriving, making new friends, enjoying fun activities, and settling into a positive daily routine.

“My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9)

5. Build a Relationship with Your Provider

Your daycare provider is more than a caregiver; she’s a partner in your child’s early learning journey.

If you notice your provider looks tired, ask if she’s okay. Ask about her children or family. Celebrate her birthday. Bring coffee on a cold morning or slip a thank-you note into your child’s bag. These small gestures create warmth and trust.

When you sow kindness, your child reaps peace.

“To have friends, you must show yourself friendly.” — Proverbs 18:24

Please look out for a post dedicated to this section.

Final Thoughts

This is just the beginning of my Daycare Diaries, a series of stories, lessons, and faith-filled reflections from our daycare journey. From meeting your child’s educators to building a special goodbye routine, I hope these words remind you that you are not alone.

Whether you are days away from starting daycare or already in the middle of it, remember: God is with you and your little one every single step of the way.