Moving & Daycare Guide 2026: Finding Care in a New Area
Complete guide to finding daycare when moving in 2026. Research timeline, transitioning children, evaluating options remotely, and settling into new care.
Moving with children adds the challenge of finding new childcare. Planning ahead and knowing how to research from a distance helps ensure continuity of care during this transition.
Table of Contents
Research Timeline
When to Start
| Timeline | Actions | |----------|---------| | 3-6 months before | Begin research, join waitlists | | 2-3 months before | Schedule virtual tours | | 1 month before | Finalize choice, complete enrollment | | 2 weeks before | Say goodbye to current care | | Move week | Keep child's routine stable | | First weeks | Focus on adjustment |
Waitlist Reality
| Consideration | Action | |---------------|--------| | Long waitlists | Apply immediately | | Multiple options | Apply to several | | Deposits | Budget for multiple | | Be flexible | May need interim care |
Researching from a Distance
Online Research
| Resource | What to Find | |----------|--------------| | State licensing | License status, violations | | Google/Yelp reviews | Parent experiences | | Social media | Recent photos, activity | | Website | Philosophy, curriculum | | DaycarePath | Local options |
Virtual Tours
| What to Ask For | Why | |-----------------|-----| | Video walkthrough | See actual space | | Meet director | Get sense of culture | | See classrooms | Age-appropriate areas | | Outdoor space | Play areas | | Documentation | Handbook, policies |
Questions to Ask
- What is your current availability?
- Can you hold a spot for our move date?
- What is required for enrollment?
- What is your transition process?
- Can I complete paperwork remotely?
Transitioning Your Child
Saying Goodbye
| Age | How to Help | |-----|-------------| | Infant/toddler | Keep routine, comfort items | | Preschool | Talk about change, say goodbye | | School-age | Let them express feelings |
Preparing for New Care
| Action | Why It Helps | |--------|--------------| | Read books about moving | Normalize feelings | | Talk positively | Build excitement | | Bring comfort item | Continuity | | Share preferences | Help new caregivers |
First Weeks in New Care
Expect Adjustment
| Timeline | What's Normal | |----------|---------------| | Week 1 | Tears, clinginess | | Week 2-3 | Some good, some hard days | | Week 4+ | Settling in |
Supporting Success
| Strategy | How It Helps | |----------|--------------| | Consistent drop-off | Build routine | | Quick goodbye | Less drawn out stress | | Comfort from home | Security | | Communication | Stay connected with caregivers | | Patience | Adjustment takes time |
Special Considerations
Military Moves
| Resource | Help Available | |----------|----------------| | MilitaryChildCare.com | Register at new base early | | School Liaison | On-base support | | MFLC | Free counseling | | Fee assistance | For off-base care |
Corporate Relocation
| Ask About | Details | |-----------|---------| | Relocation benefits | May include childcare help | | Time off for settling | Childcare setup time | | Backup care | While searching | | Reimbursements | Some cover deposits |
Interim Care Options
While Waiting for Permanent Care
| Option | Best For | |--------|----------| | Drop-in care | Short-term flexibility | | Temporary nanny | Bridge gap | | Family help | If available | | Au pair | Longer commitment |
Resources
Last updated: December 2025