Daycare Adjustment Timeline Guide 2026: What to Expect
Complete guide to daycare adjustment in 2026. Timeline for settling in and what's normal.
Adjustment takes time. Know what to expect as your child settles into daycare.
Typical Timeline
| Timeframe | What to Expect | |-----------|----------------| | Week 1 | Hardest, most change | | Week 2-3 | Some improvement | | Month 1 | Settling in | | Month 2 | More comfortable | | Month 3 | New normal |
Normal Adjustment Behaviors
| Behavior | Duration | |----------|----------| | Crying at drop-off | 2-4 weeks | | Clinginess | 2-6 weeks | | Sleep changes | 1-4 weeks | | Appetite changes | 1-2 weeks | | More tantrums | 2-4 weeks |
Phases of Adjustment
| Phase | What Happens | |-------|--------------| | Honeymoon | Initial excitement | | Reality | Harder days | | Adjustment | Learning routine | | Belonging | Feeling at home |
When to Worry
| Concern | Consider | |---------|----------| | No improvement by 6-8 weeks | Talk to teachers | | Getting worse | Investigate | | Extreme distress | Seek support | | Physical symptoms | See pediatrician |
Resources
Last updated: December 2025