A big change: From two to five days a week

Just four months ago, Mia, a lively two-year-old, began attending Journey five days a week instead of two. It’s easy to see how happy and excited she is as she confidently enters each morning. There’s no sign of separation anxiety anymore; Mia doesn’t even wait for her father to say goodbye. Instead, she rushes to greet her educator with a joyful hug. She knows breakfast is about to be served, the dinosaurs on yesterday’s sensory tray are waiting for her, and she’ll surely get to paint later—her favourite activity that everyone here knows she loves. The benefits of full-time childcare are clearly evident in her transformation.

But it has not always been like that. Back when Mia attended two days a week, she was more reserved. Drop-offs were sometimes tearful, and during activities, she tended to stay in the background. So, what changed? 

“We initially enrolled Mia for two days, Mondays and Fridays, to give her a chance to socialise with peers and develop social skills,” says Mia’s mother. “The plan was for me to spend the rest of the week with her, giving her my undivided attention.” However, when a fantastic job opportunity came up for Mia’s mum, the family made a big decision. They increased Mia’s days at Journey to five per week.

Initial worries and doubts

Naturally, Mia’s parents had concerns. How would she cope with the extended time away from home? Would the drop-offs become more challenging? And would they still be able to spend meaningful time with her?

Much to their surprise, the anticipated challenges didn’t materialise. Instead, Mia blossomed.

“We noticed the change almost immediately,” says her mother. “Even the photos and updates we get daily through StoryPark show it—she’s always in the middle of activities now. Her separation anxiety has completely disappeared, and she’s genuinely happy. She’s even made her first friends. It’s been such a relief and a joy to see her thrive.”

Mia’s mum adds with a laugh, “By the way, she talks so much more now!” She reflects on the time she’d spent at home nurturing Mia’s development, but admits, “Looking back, I could never match the rich curriculum Journey provides. The variety of activities and learning opportunities here are incredible.”

The Role of Routine

Journey’s educators note that Mia’s progress reflects what they often observe when children attend more days each week. The benefits of full-time childcare becomes evident as a consistent routine helps children feel more secure, reduces separation anxiety, and allows them to fully engage in the environment. Attending fewer days can sometimes disrupt a child’s sense of routine, making it harder for them to settle in.

With regular attendance, children like Mia become more familiar with their surroundings, build stronger relationships with educators and peers, and enjoy the full range of developmental opportunities on offer.

The numerous benefits of daycare are well documented in studies.

The Benefits of Childcare

The advantages of quality childcare are well-documented. Here are just a few highlights:

• Routine and Structure: Children quickly adapt to structured routines that foster a sense of belonging. Regular activities like storytime or singing help toddlers anticipate and enjoy their day, making the transition to preschool or school smoother.

• Developmental Support: Journey’s educators are trained to support and challenge each child’s growth, laying a foundation for a lifelong love of learning. Research even suggests that teenagers who attended childcare often perform better academically than those who didn’t.

• Social Skills: In a safe, nurturing environment, children learn to relate to others, solve problems, and work together. These early socialisation skills help them become better communicators and collaborators.

• Confidence and Independence: Repetition and consistency help children build self-assurance. Like Mia, who now confidently tackles the climbing frame—a newfound passion.

No reason to feel guilty 

Parents often worry about the time spent away from their children. However, studies reveal that even parents who stay home spend only slightly more exclusive time with their children compared to those who use childcare. In fact, parents with children in care often make better use of the time they have together, focusing on quality interactions rather than dividing attention between childcare and household responsibilities. The Benefit of more days in childcare often includes more meaningful family time, as parents can enjoy undistracted moments with their children.

Mia’s mum echoes this sentiment: “I can see how well Mia is cared for and supported at Journey, which lets me focus on work with peace of mind. And when I pick her up, our time together is special. She has so many stories to tell, and I can’t wait to hear them.”

A positive result for all 

For Mia and her family, the decision to increase her days at Journey has been a resounding success. As her mum gives her a warm hug at pick-up, Mia eagerly shares tales of her day, brimming with excitement.

The journey to this point wasn’t without hesitation, but it’s clear that more days in care have brought happiness, growth, and confidence to their little girl—and peace of mind to her parents. For families facing a similar decision, Mia’s story is a heartening reminder that benefits of full-time childcare can truly be magic for everyone involved.