What tips does anyone have for dropping off your toddler at daycare that doesn’t end in tears?

Try to work with your daycare provider to have her distract him when you drop him off. My son loves daycare but started getting teary at drop offs when separation anxiety kicked in. My babysitter would say “Hey! I have a new toy” or “Do you want to help me start the laundry?” (He loves pressing the buttons.) That might help. Also keep the goodbye short. Dragging it out will prolong the crying.

I’m assuming kids feed off your energy so if you act excited about daycare and don’t drag out the goodbye process with long hugs and sad faces and “I’m gonna miss you” then maybe they will be more excited to go to daycare. I’m not saying you do that at all so please don’t get me wrong but I’ve seen moms who can’t quit hugging their kids and keep looking back and even cry and that’s what makes the kids nervous. My mom wouldn’t even come to a complete stop for me. She was like “I’m in a hurry tuck and roll!” 😂

As a former daycare teacher, I'm echoing the previous posters when I say do not drag it out!!!

I had parents in my class that, and I honestly don't think they realized this, would literally stay UNTIL their kid started crying, even when given multiple opportunities to leave. I think they had been so used to it, that they just subconsciously were waiting for it to happen.

With some kids, you can slip out. I know it seems harsh, but honestly, it's better that way. Some don't end up crying at all. If your child notices your absence after whatever distraction is over with (you can ask teacher at pickup) then I suggest making it a point to say goodbye. My son has went through phases of both, so you never know!

Your attitude towards the teacher matters a ton by the way!! Be excited to greet them yourself. Talk about them in the car. Tell your child the teacher LOVES getting high fives or hugs in the morning. It can become their morning greeting and the routine may help.