There was a time, before both parents had to work to maintain a standard of living, that mothers were with their children 24 hours a day, seven days a week. However today, it is not at all uncommon that both parents have to work full time.

This change in demographic has lead to the stratospheric rise of daycare providers. Day care centers in your area are required to follow governmental guidelines, but with such a fast growth rate you would still want to make certain a place passes your own standards.

One of the most important things you can do in any child care provider situation is to make sure your little one is able to make a smooth adjustment.

Therefore, the question obviously becomes: How can my child adjust to daycare most easily?

Whether it's a child's first time in a daycare facility, rejoining a facility after an extended break or even moving on to an older class or new caregiver, both children and adults can get daycare anxiety.

What can parents do to ease a child's anxiety about daycare?

The answer is that both parents and children will need time to adjust. Even if your child is excited to attend a new facility, he or she will still experience some normal nervousness and anxiety as to what to aspect. Here are 5 suggestions to help minimize the adjustment period for you both.

One: Plan to remain with your child when she first arrives. This will provide some needed reassurance and support. You'll know when the time is right for you to leave. With some children, the first day is the only time staying in the classroom is necessary. With others, you may need to remain with your child for a few days...or even longer. Eventually, she'll be familiar with the new setting and routine and will be too busy to notice your presence!

Two: Learn as much about the facility and its schedule in advance. Discuss with your child what he will be doing, and in what order, if possible.

Three: Prepare in advance by establishing a structure that will be followed once your child starts attending this center. Determine a bedtime routine, and be sure to allow enough time in the morning for a good breakfast. A familiar routine helps to establish a positive experience for all.

Four: Tour the center and the specific classroom with your child before his first day. Introduce him to friends and teachers. Let him explore some of the centers or features.

Five: Express confidence and enthusiasm about the new arrangement. She needs your support. Tell her about some of the activities she will be participating in. Speak about your positive expectations about the experience--and she will most likely work hard to meet them.

Finally, a few words on making your choice. When approaching a child care provider there are two important things to keep in mind. The first is, has this individual chosen the daycare profession because they have a real interest and love for providing care to children. The second is daycare providers, caregivers or teachers are so much more than babysitters. They happen to be committed professionals. Should a provider offer care within the home it could be easy for you to overlook the fact that it is a serious business for them.